Renal Pelvic Haemorrhage Complicating Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

Subepithelial haemorrhage of the renal pelvis is a rare cause of haematuria and can be diagnosed based on radiographic findings. This haemorrhage often appears as a non-enhancing hyperdense mass in the renal pelvis on computed tomography, which sometimes results in unnecessary nephrectomy because it can mimic renal neoplasms. It can be managed conservatively, and its prognosis is generally benign. We report a case of renal pelvic haemorrhage complicating emphysematous pyelonephritis that needed emergent nephrectomy. Our case highlights the importance of careful observation for complications of urinary tract infection, although complications are rare.

Renal pelvic haemorrhage is an uncommon cause of haematuria. It can mimic renal neoplasms, which sometimes results in unnecessary nephrectomy.Although the prognosis of renal pelvic haemorrhage is generally benign, careful observation for complications of urinary tract infection is important.