## Overview Pyelonephritis is bacterial infection of the kidney, usually ascending from the bladder. Signs include fever, painful or frequent urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, weight loss, and pain on rectal palpation of the kidney (especially the left, which is more accessible). It is less common than simple cystitis. ## Causes Ascending urinary-tract infection. ## Diagnosis Urinalysis, culture, ultrasound of the kidneys, and bloodwork. ## Treatment Prolonged antibiotics based on culture and sensitivity. Address any underlying cause of urinary stasis. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fair to good if treated early. Chronic cases can lead to renal scarring. ## Prevention Prompt treatment of lower urinary-tract infections.
fever; painful urination; cloudy or foul urine; weight loss; pain on rectal palpation of the kidney
## Overview Pyelonephritis is bacterial infection of the kidney, usually ascending from the bladder. Signs include fever, painful or frequent urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, weight loss, and pain on rectal palpation of the kidney (especially the left, which is more accessible). It is less common than simple cystitis. ## Causes Ascending urinary-tract infection. ## Diagnosis Urinalysis, culture, ultrasound of the kidneys, and bloodwork. ## Treatment Prolonged antibiotics based on culture and sensitivity. Address any underlying cause of urinary stasis. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fair to good if treated early. Chronic cases can lead to renal scarring. ## Prevention Prompt treatment of lower urinary-tract infections.
fever; painful urination; cloudy or foul urine; weight loss; pain on rectal palpation of the kidney