Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis

The purpose of this investigation is to review the individual cases that have been reported in an effort to evaluate the epidemiology of the disease, and the clinical and laboratory findings of patients presenting with idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis. There were 70 case reports reviewed. Cases associated with methysergide ingestion, retroperitoneal tumors and retroperitoneal injury were excluded. A discussion of current diagnostic procedures and treatment, along with a review of the pathology, histology, etiology and natural history is presented.