Definition
An infection of the kidney, often spreading upwards from the lower urinary tract.
Symptoms
Fever, chills, flank pain, tiredness or nausea, with or without urinary burning.
How it may be discovered
May occur alone or alongside obstruction, including a stone.
When to seek care
Seek same-day assessment; severe illness, confusion or deterioration requires emergency care.
Investigations and tests
Examination, urine culture and severity-based blood tests; imaging for suspected obstruction or poor progress.
Reaching a diagnosis
Assessment establishes infection, severity and whether obstruction changes treatment urgently.
Treatment options
Appropriate antibiotics and monitoring. Infection in an obstructed kidney may require emergency drainage; admission depends on severity and risk factors.
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