Bilateral Ureteric Obstruction Due to Retroperitoneal Fibrosis: A Case Report

Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare disease with a largely unknown aetiology, varying presentation, and is characterized by fibrous tissue formation in the retroperitoneal region. It causes entrapment and obstruction of retroperitoneal tubular structures, notably the ureters, and has been associated with autoimmune disorders. We report a 52-year-old male who was admitted to the emergency department with a seven-day history of lower abdominal pain, anorexia, and unintentional weight loss. Routine blood work revealed the patient to have acute kidney injury, and an unenhanced computed tomography scan of the abdomen showed bilateral hydronephrosis (grades 1 and 3 on the right and left, respectively) caused by a soft tissue mass in the retroperitoneal region. This mass was investigated with further imaging and a core biopsy, which confirmed retroperitoneal fibrosis. He is currently being planned for ureterolysis after a poor response to steroid therapy under the nephrology team. Urinary diversion was achieved with bilateral nephrostomies following unsatisfactory drainage with bilateral ureteric stents. This case highlights some of the difficulties that may be encountered in the management of retroperitoneal fibrosis.