XANTHOGRANULOMATOUS PYELONEPHRITIS MIMICKING MALIGNANT DISEASE - IS PRESERVATION OF THE KIDNEY POSSIBLE

Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP) is an uncommon form of pyelon ephritis rarely seen in children. It is characterized by destruction o f the renal parenchyma and invasion of adjacent tissues, mimicking ren al tumors. Preoperative diagnosis is very difficult. Two children with XGP are presented. One underwent nephrectomy and the other drainage o f a renal abscess with kidney preservation. Although surgery is consid ered the only effective treatment, a high index of suspicion and renal biopsy may prevent radical nephrectomy.