Pyelonephrosis

Pyelonephritis is an infection of the kidneys, usually caused by bacteria. It can be acute or chronic and is associated with pain and fever. Symptoms of pyelonephritis include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and flank pain. Other symptoms may include chills, fever, and pain or difficulty with urination. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of physical exam, urine analysis, and imaging such as an ultrasound or CT scan. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, pain medications, and fluids. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary. Long-term complications of pyelonephritis can include scarring of the kidneys and damage to the kidneys, as well as increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease.