Purpose: It is difficult to explain some CT findings pertaining the anatomic relationship between the bare area of the liver and the right retroperitoneal space on the basis of the traditional three compartment concept of retroperitoneal anatomy. The purpose of this article is to ascertain and illustrate possible communication between the bare area of the liver and the right perirenal space in patients with gas-forming retroperitoneal infection.
Method: We reviewed CT findings in 24 cases with retroperitoneal gas-forming condition with particular emphasis on the extent of the infection and resultant distribution of gas.
Results: CT images showed gas within the right perirenal space extended upward directly into the bare area of the liver in six cases.
Conclusion: The right perirenal space is considered open toward the bare area of the liver. Therefore, gas within the perirenal space may communicate directly with the bare area of the liver.