Retroperitoneal fibrosis associated with propranolol: a case report; is corticosteroid administration necessary after ureterolysis?

BACKGROUND

Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare disease. It can be primary (Ormond's disease) or secondary to inflammation, malignancy or some drugs. Beta-adrenergic blockers including propranolol can cause the retroperitoneal fibrosis disease.

METHODS

A 44-year-old woman who was taking propranolol for 13 years came to our center with complaints of oliguria and uremia symptoms (malaise, nausea and vomiting). After some investigations, it was found that the disease was retroperitoneal fibrosis. In the first step, she was treated with corticosteroids and then because of inadequate response, bilateral ureterolysis was performed. Then, an additional course of corticosteroid therapy was required after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Retroperitoneal fibrosis is an unknown cause disease that can involve ureters and can cause obstructive symptoms. The imaging procedure of choice for diagnosis is abdominal CT scanning with oral and intravenous contrast agents. Corticosteroids are the first option for treatment, however, if they are not effective and in case of severe obstruction, ureterolysis can be performed. Beta- adrenergic blocker drugs that are widely used in heart diseases can be a cause of retroperitoneal fibrosis.