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Emphysematous cystitis: an incidental finding with varying outcomes
T J Tan1, K Parmar1, A Mukherjee1
1South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK.
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
|May 31, 2022
Summary
Emphysematous cystitis, a severe urinary tract infection, can be incidentally found on imaging. Prompt treatment with antibiotics and drainage is crucial for this potentially lethal condition.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Emphysematous cystitis (EC) is a rare, severe urinary tract infection.
- Characterized by gas in the bladder wall, EC is caused by gas-forming organisms.
- Predisposing factors include diabetes, immunosuppression, and neurogenic bladder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report two cases of incidental emphysematous cystitis detection.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing EC even when asymptomatic.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two patients diagnosed with EC via imaging.
- Evaluation for unrelated symptoms leading to incidental EC diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Emphysematous cystitis was incidentally detected on imaging in two patients.
- Patients were asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Emphysematous cystitis can be incidentally diagnosed on imaging.
- Prompt recognition and treatment (antibiotics, drainage) are vital to prevent mortality and morbidity, even in asymptomatic cases.
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