ADVANCES IN THE IMAGING OF RENAL INFECTION

In recent years, computed tomography (CT) has increased in prominence in the imaging and evaluation of renal infection. The reasons for this trend include better availability of CT scanners and timely access to them. Additionally, important technical advances have made CT studies easier to perform and have increased the reliability and utility of the information that they provide. Other imaging modalities, namely, ultrasound (US), nuclear scintigraphy, excretory urography (IVP), and MR imaging have varying degrees of usefulness in the evaluation of renal infection.

Diagnostic imaging is not required in all cases of renal infection. For example, in most cases of acute renal infection in adults, the diagnosis and treatment may be based solely on clinical and laboratory findings. This article discusses what helical CT and other imaging has to offer, including the specific roles, capabilities, and limitations of the various imaging modalities. Individual disease entities are then discussed, with particular attention to imaging findings that are characteristic or that have significance with regard to patient management.