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Published on: July 18, 2017
Emphysematous pyelonephritis in children: Lessons from a case report and systematic review
K V Aparna1, Mohnish Darshan1, Avani Kulkarni1
1Department of Pediatrics and Division of Pediatric Nephrology & Hypertension, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India.
Pediatric emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is rare, with obstructive nephropathy a key risk factor. Antibiotics are the primary treatment, but some cases require drainage or surgery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Urology
Background:
- Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a severe, gas-producing kidney infection with limited pediatric data.
- Understanding pediatric EPN is crucial due to its life-threatening nature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail a pediatric EPN case and review existing literature.
- To analyze clinical presentations, diagnostics, management, and outcomes in pediatric EPN.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search across PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science.
- Quality assessment using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist.
Main Results:
- 20 studies (21 patients) were reviewed; median age was 48 months.
- Reflux/obstructive nephropathy (52.3%) and E. coli were common.
- Treatments included antibiotics (47.6%), minimally invasive procedures (33.3%), and nephrectomy (19%).
Conclusions:
- Obstructive or reflux nephropathy is a significant risk factor for pediatric EPN.
- Antibiotics form the cornerstone of treatment, supplemented by supportive care.
- Refractory cases may necessitate percutaneous drainage or nephrectomy.
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