RENAL MALACOPLAKIA - AN IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION IN THE DIFFERENTIAL-DIAGNOSIS OF RENAL MASSES IN THE PRESENCE OF ESCHERICHIA-COLI INFECTION

Renal malacoplakia is an uncommon condition with a variety of radiolog ical characteristics which may initially suggest an alternative diagno sis. Three cases of renal malacoplakia were diagnosed in our hospital during a 2 year period. This apparent cluster of cases probably reflec ts the increased use of imaging and biopsy in the investigation of eld erly hospitalized patients. It is important to make a definitive diagn osis as correct management may result in cure.