A septic pulmonary embolism (SPE) is a rare disease originating from septic thrombi from a primary site of infection. Pyelonephritis is a rare cause of inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis and SPE. We experienced a case of SPE associated with pyelonephritis, a perirenal abscess, and renal vein and IVC thrombosis in a patient with diabetes mellitus. Prompt antimicrobial therapy led to a successful outcome, with complete resolution of the thrombi. We report a case of SPE due to pyelonephritis with a review of the literature. (Korean J Med 76:105-109, 2009) |