Transient Hyperechoic Renal Cortex Caused by Dehydration and Induced Acute Renal Failure in Two Patients with Intra-Abdominal Infection

Increased renal cortical echogenicity can be seen in patients with various underlying renal abnormalities. However, there are no reports of hyperechoic cortex associated with volume depletion until now. Here, we describe two cases of hyperechoic cortex caused by severe dehydration due to liver abscess and acute salmonellosis which lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. After administering large amounts of fluid supplements, the renal functions dramatically recovered and the echogenicity of the renal cortex returned to normal. Redistribution of renal blood flow and cortical ischemia may play a role in changes in echogenicity that occur in the renal cortex. Additionally, studies on increased renal cortical echogenicity and dehydration are reviewed.