Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a rare and severe infection of the kidney, which is characterized by necrotising changes in the renal parenchyma and accumulation of gas in the peri-renal tissue. The causative organism is usually a gas forming gram negative bacteria. We present a case of 65 years old gentleman presenting with leg pain, little lower urinary tract symptoms of fever, referred to our hospital with a renal mass requiring nephrectomy. He was subsequently diagnosed as EPN, requiring aggressive antibiotic therapy, haemodialysis, fasciotomy and surgical debridement. This case highlights the timely interventions required by multiple specialities and aggressive management including surgical intervention essential for an acceptable recovery. We have also tried to understand the pathophysiology of the disease and why it responds poorly to treatment.