Pyelonephritis

Nephrology

Overview

Definition

Type of urinary tract infection that generally begins in urethra/bladder and travels to kidneys.

Epidemiology

Common, especially in females.

Etiology & Risk Factors

  • E. coli
  • Klebsiella
  • Proteus

Clinical Symptoms

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Flank pain
  • CVA tenderness
  • Dysuria

Clinical Approach

Diagnosis

  • Urinalysis (WBC casts, nitrites, leukocyte esterase)
  • Urine culture

Management

  • Antibiotics (Fluoroquinolones, Ceftriaxone)

Complications

  • Renal abscess
  • Sepsis
  • Papillary necrosis