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A Patient with Generalized Weakness - A Case Report
Darby Graham1, Manparbodh Kaur2, John Costumbrado1,2
1University of California, Riverside, School of Medicine, Riverside, CA.
Journal of Education & Teaching in Emergency Medicine
|August 14, 2023
Summary
Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN), a severe kidney infection with gas formation, requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. This case highlights successful management of a complicated EPN case with an abscess via drainage.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rare, life-threatening necrotizing infection of the kidney.
- EPN is associated with uncontrolled diabetes and more prevalent in females.
- Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of progressive pyelonephritis complicated by emphysematous abscess formation.
- To emphasize the importance of considering EPN in patients with severe weakness and signs of infection.
Main Methods:
- A 49-year-old female with diabetes presented with generalized weakness and elevated lactate.
- Abdominal/pelvic CT scan revealed a subcapsular fluid collection with gas in the right kidney, suggestive of EPN.
- Interventional radiology placed a perinephric drain for abscess management.
Main Results:
- The patient's condition improved following the drainage procedure.
- The patient was discharged in stable condition.
Conclusions:
- EPN should be considered in the differential diagnosis of generalized weakness, especially in diabetic patients.
- Early diagnostic and therapeutic measures, including drainage, are vital for managing complicated EPN.
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