Primary emphysematous ureteritis diagnosed using CT and successfully treated with ureteral stenting: A case report

Emphysematous urinary tract infections (EUTIs) are usually reported as emphysematous pyelonephritis or cystitis, whereas ureteral involvement as the main lesion is extremely rare. An 86-year-old woman presented with left lower abdominal pain and constipation. Computed tomography revealed gas formation predominantly in the left ureter, consistent with emphysematous ureteritis. During hospitalization, the patient had elevated levels of inflammatory markers and procalcitonin, and developed disseminated intravascular coagulation. Ureteral stenting and antibiotic therapy resulted in rapid improvement, and she was discharged on day 14. This case demonstrates that EUTI can primarily involve the ureter, and can be effectively treated with minimally invasive drainage.