Abstract:
Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGPN) is a rare clinicopathological syndrome that is unique among
the various inflammatory conditions of the kidney, and it closely mimics renal cell carcinoma, both clinically
and radiologically. Approximately one third of XGPN cases have associated complications, such as abscess
and fistulas, although the latter is much less common. Spontaneous renocolic fistulas of non-tubercular
origin are also rare, especially in Asia. Fistula or deep sinus formation as a complication of XGPN is a rare
clinical condition. Currently, only approximately 10 such cases (including our case) have been reported in
the literature. We present one such case of spontaneous nephrocolic fistula complicating XGPN. Ultrasonography,
an intravenous urogram, retrograde pyelogram, and computerized tomography aided in diagnosing
the presence of a renocolic fistula. The treatment regimen of total nephrectomy with primary closure of the
rent in the colon was adequate.
