What is the medical term for a kidney infection?

The medical term for a kidney infection is pyelonephritis. This condition specifically refers to inflammation of the kidney, often caused by a bacterial infection that ascends from the lower urinary tract. Pyelonephritis can affect one or both kidneys and is characterized by symptoms such as fever, back pain, and urinary disturbance.

In contrast, the other terms listed refer to different medical conditions: pulmonary embolism relates to blockage in the pulmonary arteries, deep vein thrombosis refers to blood clots that form in deep veins, typically in the legs, and peripheral vascular disease involves narrowing of the blood vessels outside of the heart and brain, affecting circulation. Understanding the specific terminology is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment in the medical field.