VB
Vikas Bhardwaj
Medical Technologist, AIIMS New Delhi
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
**Core Concept**
The patient is presenting with signs and symptoms of pyelonephritis, a type of kidney infection, which has progressed to a perinephric abscess, a collection of pus surrounding the kidney. This condition requires prompt and effective treatment to prevent further complications.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The patient's condition is refractory to antibiotics, indicating a need for drainage of the abscess. A percutaneous drainage is the preferred method, as it is less invasive and has a lower risk of complications compared to open surgery. This procedure involves inserting a catheter into the abscess under imaging guidance, allowing for the drainage of pus and antibiotics to be administered directly into the abscess.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Surgical exploration is typically reserved for cases where percutaneous drainage is not feasible or has failed, and is associated with higher risks and complications.
**Option B:** Re-evaluation of the antibiotic regimen may be necessary, but in this case, the patient's condition has not improved despite initial antibiotic treatment, suggesting an abscess that requires drainage.
**Option C:** This option is not a viable treatment option for a perinephric abscess.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Percutaneous drainage is a safe and effective treatment option for perinephric abscesses, with high success rates and low complication rates.
**Correct Answer:** C.