A collection of pus in the kidney that results from an invading bacterium.

The common cause of an abscess is the organism Staphylococcus aureus. In addition to staphylococcus, several other organisms can cause kidney abscesses. Pus is made up of dead white blood cells, bacteria, tissue debris, and proteins that develop secondary to the immune response to the bacteria.

An acute abscess is usually associated with the following signs and symptoms: significant inflammation; the generation of intense heat, redness, and swelling; fever; chills; and throbbing pain.

The diagnosis of kidney abscess requires either computed tomography (CT) scan or ultrasound of the kidney. The organisms responsible may be identified from urine or blood cultures.

Staphylococcal infections are usually treated with antimicrobial agents. In addition, abscesses are drained, via surgery or catheters, and foreign bodies are removed. Therapy usually lasts for 1 to 2 weeks if abscesses are drained and there are no foreign bodies or organisms in the blood. If foreign bodies are left in place, curing the infection is rare.

An abscess can rip open without warning or be drained via an incision. If the abscess is left untreated, the organisms may spread to adjacent tissues or advance to other parts of the body through the bloodstream.

• Rate as urinary tract infection (UTI). 

• The new criteria for the Genitourinary Disease and Conditions body system became effective November 14, 2021.  Review both current and historic criteria prior to any reduction for disabilities established before that date. 38 CFR 3.951(a)

Notes

• When evaluating any claim involving loss or loss of use of one or more creative organs, refer to 38 CFR 3.350 of this chapter to determine whether the Veteran may be entitled to special monthly compensation. Footnotes in the schedule indicate conditions which potentially establish entitlement to special monthly compensation; however, there are other conditions in this section which under certain circumstances also establish entitlement to special monthly compensation.