Hydronephrosis: An Unusual Complication of a Diverticular Abscess

Aalam Sohal1, Hunza Chaudhry2, Lin Li2

  • 1Internal Medicine, Liver Institute Northwest, Fresno, USA.

Cureus
|December 7, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Acute diverticulitis, a common condition, can rarely cause ureteral obstruction leading to hydronephrosis. This case highlights the importance of considering urinary tract complications in patients presenting with abdominal pain.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Urology

Background:

  • Acute diverticulitis is a frequent gastrointestinal condition.
  • Known complications include abscess, perforation, obstruction, and fistula formation.

Observation:

  • A rare case of a 40-year-old male patient with diverticulitis is presented.
  • The patient presented with a perisigmoid abscess.
  • The abscess was complicated by left-sided hydronephrosis.

Findings:

  • This case demonstrates a rare ureteral complication of acute diverticulitis.
  • Perisigmoid abscess formation can lead to secondary hydronephrosis.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing such complications.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider ureteral complications like hydronephrosis in patients with diverticulitis.
  • Early recognition of this rare presentation can prevent delayed treatment and adverse outcomes.
  • This finding expands the spectrum of known diverticulitis complications.

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