Short overview: Retroperitoneal fibrosis (Ormond disease)
What is Ormond's disease?
Ormond's disease is a rare, chronic inflammatory disease. Behind the abdominal fur, solid connective tissue is increasingly formed, usually around the large body artery. This tissue can constrict one or both ureters, thereby impeding urine discharge from the kidneys.
Possible causes
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Often the exact cause remains unknown.
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Some of the cases may be related to an IgG4-associated disease.
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More rarely, drugs, infections, tumor diseases, surgeries or radiation are suitable as triggers.
Typical complaints
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Dull back, abdominal or flank pain
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Nausea, fatigue and general feeling of illness
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Loss of appetite and weight loss
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reduced amount of urine
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Swollen legs
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elevated blood pressure
A prolonged urinary congestion can permanently damage the kidneys and lead to kidney failure.
Diagnosis
In particular, the following serves for clarification:
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Blood and urine tests
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Control of kidney values and inflammation levels
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Ultrasound of the kidneys
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Computer tomography or magnetic resonance imaging
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optionally a tissue sample for the exclusion of other diseases
Treatment
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In the case of a urinary congestion, the urine outflow must first be secured, for example by a ureter splint or kidney fistula.
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The inflammation is often treated with cortisone.
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Depending on the course, further drugs can be used to suppress the immune system.
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Surgery may be necessary if the ureters are permanently constricted.
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Regular checks are important because the disease can recur.
Important: Newly occurring severe flank pain, significantly less urine, fever, vomiting or water retention should be clarified immediately by a doctor.
This review does not replace a personal examination or treatment. Sources: Orphanet, Urological Foundation Health.