Bilateral stones as a cause of acute renal failure in the emergency department.

BACKGROUND: Acute renal failure (ARF) due to obstructive uropathy is a urological emergency. The standard radiological investigations in the emergency setting include X-ray, ultrasonography and computed tomography. But occasionally the cause of obstruction may be elusive.

METHODS: We present a case of obstructive uropathy due to bilateral stones presenting as acute renal failure. The patient underwent successful shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) for dissolution of calculi.

RESULTS: The patient was successfully treated, and reported asymptomatic in a follow-up.

CONCLUSION: Close collaboration between nephrological, urological, and radiological services is required.