Angiographic features of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis

Preoperative diagnosis of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP) is possible in numerous cases by renal angiography, thus permitting the differentiation of this disease from renal adenocarcinoma. Angiographic features are reviewed in patients with proved XGP. The most useful findings are: (1) presence of hypervascularised areas; (2) dilated renal capsular and perforating arteries, and (3) heterogenous aspect of the kidney during the nephrographic period.