CHRONIC PYELONEPHRITIS
Definition
Chronic pyelonephritis is a type of recurrent or persistent kidney infection that occurs in the renal pelvis, calyces, and parenchyma.
Types
- Recurring pyelonephritis: Recurrent episodes of pyelonephritis that occur over a period of time.
- Chronic non-recurring pyelonephritis: Infrequent episodes of pyelonephritis that occur over a long period of time.
Causes
- Urinary tract obstruction: Blockage of the urinary tract that prevents the normal flow of urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
- Urinary tract abnormalities: Abnormalities in the shape or structure of the urinary tract that increase the risk of infection.
- Weakened immune system: A weakened immune system that makes it difficult for the body to fight off infections.
- Bacterial infection: Bacterial infections such as E. coli, Pseudomonas, and Enterobacter.
Clinical Features
- Pain: Pain in the flank, back, or side of the abdomen.
- Fever: Elevated body temperature.
- Chills: Feeling of coldness or shivering.
- Fatigue: Feeling of tiredness or weakness.
- Blood in the urine: Presence of blood in the urine.
- Frequent urination: Need to urinate frequently.
- Urinary tract infection symptoms: Symptoms of a urinary tract infection such as burning during urination, pelvic pain, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
Investigations
- Ultrasound: Imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the kidneys and urinary tract.
- CT scan: Imaging test that uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the kidneys and urinary tract.
- Intravenous pyelography (IVP): Imaging test that uses X-rays and a contrast agent to create images of the kidneys and urinary tract.
- Urinalysis: Test that examines the urine for signs of infection, blood, or other abnormalities.
- Blood tests: Test that examines the blood for signs of infection or inflammation.
Complications
- Kidney damage: Damage to the kidneys that can lead to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
- Urinary tract obstruction: Blockage of the urinary tract that can lead to kidney damage or failure.
- Severe infections: Severe infections that can spread to other parts of the body.
Management
- Antibiotics: Medications that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria.
- Fluids: Drinking plenty of fluids to help flush out the kidneys and urinary tract.
- Pain relief: Medications that help relieve pain and discomfort.
- Surgery: Surgery to remove the infected kidney or to correct any underlying abnormalities in the urinary tract.
Treatment
- Conservative management: Management of the condition with antibiotics and other medications without surgery.
- Surgical management: Surgery to remove the infected kidney or to correct any underlying abnormalities in the urinary tract.
Homoeopathic Therapeutic Medicines
- Arsenicum album: Indicated in cases of chronic pyelonephritis with symptoms of burning during urination and pelvic pain.
- Cantharis: Indicated in cases of chronic pyelonephritis with symptoms of pain and burning during urination.
- Nux vomica: Indicated in cases of chronic pyelonephritis with symptoms of fatigue and weakness.
- Sarsaparilla: Indicated in cases of chronic pyelonephritis with symptoms of blood in the urine and frequent urination.