The perinephric space is an important, central compartment of the retroperitoneum which may host various acute conditions. Imaging evaluation of the perinephric space requires an understanding of its anatomy and the pathways of disease spread to and from other retroperitoneal compartments. Numerous acute conditions can affect the perinephric space and may occur in isolation, extend from nearby retroperitoneal structures, or be part of a systemic condition. Familiarity with the key imaging findings of acute conditions affecting the perinephric space is imperative to facilitate diagnosis and guide treatment. The purpose of this article is to review and illustrate the relevant anatomy, pathways of disease spread, and acute pathology encountered during cross-sectional imaging evaluation of the perinephric space.

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Editor's Note.-Everyone who has taken the course in radiologic pathology at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP) remembers bringing beautifully illustrated cases for accession to the Institute. In recent years, the staff of the Department of Radiologic Pathology has judged the ''best cases'' by organ system, and recognition is given to the winners on the last day of the class. With each issue of RadioGraphics, one or more of these cases are published, written by the winning resident. Radiologicpathologic correlation is emphasized, and the causes of the imaging signs of various diseases are illustrated.

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