Pyelonephritis Diagnosis: 5 Tests for Detecting Kidney Infection

Pyelonephritis is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, urine analysis, and imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan. These diagnostic methods help identify the presence of infection, assess kidney function, and detect any structural abnormalities that may contribute to the condition.

Common symptoms of pyelonephritis include fever, often high-grade, flank pain (pain in the side or back), frequent and urgent urination, cloudy or bloody urine, fatigue, general malaise, and occasionally nausea and vomiting. It is important to seek medical attention if experiencing these symptoms to prevent complications.

Yes, pyelonephritis can be diagnosed without imaging tests. A skilled healthcare provider can make a diagnosis based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, physical examination findings, and urine analysis. Imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan may be used to confirm the diagnosis or assess the severity of the condition.