Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis: prompt diagnosis preserves organ function.

Prompt diagnosis of idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis improves chances of preserving renal function, preventing involvement of other organs, and relieving symptoms. Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging helps to exclude secondary causes, but open biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis. Management typically includes surgery (ureterolysis, stent placement), and drug treatment (corticosteroids), or a combination of both. However, no surgical or medical therapy has been tested in a randomized, controlled trial.