Emphysematous pyelonephritis and cystitis: A case report and literature review

Abstract

This present case report describes a 64-year-old female patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus who also had emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) and emphysematous cystitis (EC). Computed tomography revealed well defined emphysematous pyelonephritis and cystitis. Broad-spectrum antibiotic and percutaneous drainage of the right kidney were used as part of a conservative management regimen. The patient achieved clinical recovery and was discharged 12 days after admission. Furthermore, 13 other cases of EPC and EC that were reported between 1962 and 2017 were reviewed and discussed. The overall mortality was 15.4% (two of 13 patients), compared with 25% for EPN alone or 7.4% for EC alone as reported in the literature. The primary pathogen identified in the 13 patients was Escherichia coli (53.8%). All 13 patients were treated with antibiotics.