Bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a severe infection found almost exclusively in diabetics, characterized by the presence of gas within the renal parenchyma. The diagnosis is established radiographically. An additional case is added to the 52 cases reported in the literature; we believe this is the fifth reported case with bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis. If appropriate diagnostic studies demonstrate no evidence of either perinephric abscess or urinary obstruction, intensive medical management should be the initial therapy for this condition. Surgical intervention is necessary in patients without prompt response to medical therapy.