Renal Vein Thrombosis Secondary to Pyelonephritis: Targeting a Thrombo-Inflammatory Entity

Abstract

Renal vein thrombosis (RVT) is a relatively uncommon condition that is most frequently observed in individuals with nephrotic syndrome. While rare, pyelonephritis (PN) may serve as a predisposing factor for secondary RVT. In such cases, one should consider the possibility of RVT when patients fail to respond to appropriate antibiotic treatment. Typically, these patients require additional anticoagulation therapy for a duration of 3 to 6 months, with a generally favorable prognosis. In this report, we present the case of a 74-year-old female who developed RVT due to Klebsiella pneumoniae PN. Additionally, we reviewed 11 cases of PN complicated by RVT, which were documented in the PubMed database over a span of 40 years, emphasizing key elements in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Lastly, we elaborated upon the role of thrombo-inflammation, especially in the context of sepsis.

Keywords

• pyelonephritis
• renal vein thrombosis
• <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i>
• thrombo-inflammation
• percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy
• xantho-granulomatous pyelonephritis