K66.2: Retroperitoneal fibrosis

Connective tissue has greatly multiplied in the space between the abdominal cavity and your back.

Between the abdominal cavity and back, there is a space inside the body that contains a lot of connective tissue and fat. The kidneys, pancreas, part of the large intestine and aorta for instance are located in this space.

Connective tissue is found all over the body and fulfills various tasks. Connective tissue contains lots of fine fibers. Thus it can protect or stabilize organs. There is connective tissue beneath the skin and around muscles, for example. Tendons, ligaments and cartilage are also made of connective tissue.

Most often the reason for the disease is not precisely known. The connective tissue in the space between the abdominal cavity and back may be multiplying because the immune system is turning on its own body. But the connective tissue can also multiply due to drugs or other diseases, for example.

If the connective tissue is multiplying, the blood vessels for instance may become constricted. As a result, blood may accumulate in the blood vessels. Sometimes the legs swell up because of this. The connective tissue can furthermore constrict the ureters. Urine flows from the kidneys into the bladder through the ureters. If the urine accumulates in the ureters, this may cause pain or inflammations. Sometimes the kidneys will be damaged as a result. With the disease, you may also lose weight or be very tired. Furthermore, you may have pain in the abdomen and back, among other things.