Intrarenal Abscess Caused by Klebsiella Pneumoniae in a Neonate: Modern Management and Diagnosis

ABSTRACT

We recently cared for a 12-day-old infant who was hospitalized for renal abscess caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae, an organism not identified as etiologic in the three newborns described to date with this disorder. The advent of cross-sectional diagnostic imaging techniques, specifically ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT), has changed the management of renal abscess in children and neonates. Ultrasonography is the diagnostic procedure of choice, but CT is another reliable imaging modality, particularly if there is spread of the abscess outside the kidney. Whether surgery is necessary for a resolution of renal abscess remains controversial. However, percutaneous aspiration under direct ultrasonographic or CT guidance has replaced routine exploration and deroofing of the abscess and therefore made the management of renal abscess achievable by simpler, less invasive techniques.