myRadiologist

Symptom

Suspected pyelonephritis

ConsiderationsRichard Wasley, MD

In the healthy, "uncomplicated" patient no imaging may be initially necessary. In patients with diabetes or immunocompromised, history of stones or prior renal surgery or not responding to therapy, imaging with CT or US may be important

IVP, nuclear renal scan, KUB or even MRI usually not first line imaging although may be useful subsequently. MRI may be useful in pregnancy though.

§Suggested imagingIn listed order

  1. 01CT abdomen and pelvis with IV contrastCPT 74177
  2. 02CT abdomen and pelvis without IV or oral contrastCPT 74176
  3. 03MRI abdomen with gadoliniumCPT 74183
  4. 04US kidneysCPT 76770