PREDICTORS OF OUTCOME IN EMPHYSEMATOUS PYELONEPHRITIS

Abstract

Serum creatinine level is the most reliable predictor of outcome in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis. By calculating likelihood ratios, patients with creatinine levels greater than 1.4 mg./dl. and platelet counts 60,000/mm.3 or less were at high risk. The posttest probability of death increased from 69 and 18% to 92 and 53% for type I and II emphysematous pyelonephritis, respectively. Patients with creatinine levels 1.4 mg./dl. or less and platelet counts greater than 60,000/mm.3 were at much lower risk. Posttest mortality risk in these patients dropped from 69 and 18% to 27 and 4% for type I and II emphysematous pyelonephritis, respectively.