Bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis combined with subcapsular hematoma and disseminated necrotizing fasciitis.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rapidly progressive and potentially life-threatening necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma characterized by the presence of gas. Bilateral EPN is a rare disease process with a high mortality rate. Bleeding associated with EPN is an extremely rare complication. Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare but serous condition with a poor prognosis. Herein we present a rare case of bilateral EPN combined with subcapsular hematomas which progressed to the development of disseminated necrotizing fasciitis. Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel