Retroperitoneal fibrosis is an autoimmune disease. The exact cause of this medical condition is still unknown. Increasing age is one of the risk factors of this condition. However, certain factors may contribute to the development of this rare medical condition.

• ● Some underlying medical conditions related to bacterial or fungal functions
• ● Tuberculosis
• ● Damage or injury to the abdomen
• ● Some research suggests that certain medications used to treat migraine and high blood pressure may also cause Retroperitoneal fibrosis

Due to Retroperitoneal fibrosis, blood flow in your lower body parts reduces and causes circulation-related problems. Early symptoms of retroperitoneal fibrosis include:

• Pain and swelling in legs
• Pain in the back and abdomen which is difficult to identify
• Unexpected weight loss and fever
• Decreased appetite
• The lower number of red blood cells
• Discoloration in legs
• Nausea and vomiting
• Impaired limb function
• Bleeding in stomach
• Impaired urine production
• Lowered concentration
• Faulty kidney function
• Excessive thirst
• Inability to urinate

• Scans: Retroperitoneal fibrosis is diagnosed with scanning techniques such as MRI and CT scan. Scans are used to check the presence of soft tissue mass that develops in the case of fibrosis.
• Blood tests: Your doctor may recommend multiple blood tests to confirm signs of inflammation, anemia, kidney functions, or infection, if any.
• Pyelograms: This medical condition primarily affects the kidneys. That is why it is crucial to assess the damage to the kidneys. Doctors use intravenous pyelograms for diagnosis.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is a common method used to diagnose any type of fibrosis or cancer. A sterile medical tool is used in a biopsy to take out a piece of tissue suspected to be cancerous.

Treatment depends on multiple factors such as the size and location of the soft-tissue growth.

• Surgery: Surgery is one of the most preferred treatment options, especially when tissue growth puts too much pressure on the abdomen or urethra. It helps in relieving obstruction in the affected location where excess mass is grown. Surgical options not just bring comfort but also help with repositioning the uterus to avoid further damage. If you undergo surgery for Retroperitoneal fibrosis, it helps reduce inflammation and prevents blockages in the ureter. Surgery is also used to unblock the blocked ureters.
• Medications: Doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids to manage early symptoms of Retroperitoneal fibrosis. Surgery alone would not manage underlying causes such as anemia, pain, etc. Medications are used to treat diseases completely with very few side effects.

If Retroperitoneal fibrosis is diagnosed and given proper treatment in its early stages, it can lead to a successful outlook. The kidneys’ damage is minimal in the early stage, and surgery can be a useful option. Prevention of Retroperitoneal fibrosis may not be possible as the cause of this disease is unknown.

Untreated or ill-managed Retroperitoneal fibrosis can lead to many complications, such as chronic kidney failure, circulatory illnesses, swelling, or blockages. When the kidneys are severely damaged due to this medical condition, you may need a transplant.