Nephrographic and pyelographic analysis of CT urography: differential diagnosis.

OBJECTIVE: The differential diagnosis of renal disease is extensive. The purpose of this article is to enable the reader to recognize and understand the abnormal nephrographic patterns encountered in practice. CONCLUSION: Recognizing the different nephrographic patterns on CT urography can be invaluable in understanding the morphologic and physiologic condition of the kidney and ultimately diagnosing the disease process.

Nephrographic and pyelographic analysis of CT urography: principles, patterns, and pathophysiology.

OBJECTIVE: Careful analysis of the nephrogram is an integral component of the evaluation of the kidneys during CT urography. This is a review of the anatomy and physiology required to produce a normal nephrogram, as well as the basic principles affecting the interpretation of the nephrogram. CONCLUSION: The eight abnormal nephrographic patterns will be illustrated and discussed. This review will enable the reader to recognize and understand the abnormal nephrographic patterns encountered in practice.