IDIOPATHIC RETROPERITONEAL FIBROSIS

Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a condition characterized by the presence of aberrant nonspecific fibro-inflammatory tissue forming around retroperitoneal structures enclosing them to a variable degree. These structures include the abdominal aorta inferior vena cava and ureters. Although it can have a variety of etiologies and can therefore be considered secondary in over 70% of cases it remains idiopathic and can be associated with a number of systemic pathologies without however being a direct consequence. The positive diagnosis of idiopathic PRF is based on the contribution of imaging essentially computed tomography on the negativity of the etiological work-up and in cases of doubt on histological evidence. The renal complications of PRF can be serious with the risk of renal failure particularly obstructive renal failure and thromboembolic complications. PRF is still a highly controversial condition in terms of its nosological framework clinical presentations and therapeutic management.