[Pyelonephritis in pregnancy]

This article on pyelonephritis of pregnancy is based on data from the literature and on a retrospective study of 64 patients followed up from 1987 to 1991. Pregnancy is the cause of a more frequent progression from lower urinary tract infection to pyelonephritis. The clinical features and course of the disease are not specific of pregnancy. Cure is the rule in young pregnant or non-pregnant women, provided the urinary tract itself is healthy. Repercussions on the foetus (weight and size retardation or prematurity) seem to have been overestimated; they are very light when pyelonephritis is successfully treated. Studies in neonates have shown no increase in the infection rate. Treatment is based on a 3-week course of antibiotics, the nature and use of which are discussed here. Prevention relies on detection and treatment of lower urinary tract infections which are known to respond readily.