Reflex Anuria Precipitated by Unknown Cause: A Case Report

Reflex anuria is a rare phenomenon that is caused by trauma or irritation to one kidney or ureter. It has been described in unilateral ureteric obstruction and after surgical procedures involving the ureters and bladder. Here we present a case of a 33-year-old female, presenting with right-sided loin to groin pain, which eventually lead to oliguria and required bilateral nephrostomies as retrograde stent insertions failed. Although an etiology was not identified, we postulate that unilateral ureteric obstruction triggered reflex anuria. Although reflex anuria is a rare presentation, it should be included in the differential diagnosis once all other causes of AKI have been ruled out. Furthermore, this report will show that bilateral nephrostomies should be considered as a viable treatment option for reflex anuria.