What complication can arise from pyelonephritis in pregnancy?

Pyelonephritis during pregnancy can lead to several complications, and one of the potential severe outcomes is acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS is characterized by sudden and severe lung injury, often due to systemic inflammatory responses, which can be triggered by severe infections such as pyelonephritis.

In the context of a pregnant patient, the systemic effects of infection and sepsis can compromise respiratory function and lead to ARDS. Pregnancy itself alters the immune response, and with the added burden of an infection, this can increase susceptibility to serious complications like ARDS.

While preterm labor is also a potential complication of pyelonephritis, ARDS represents a more critical and life-threatening concern, especially if the infection progresses to sepsis. Breech presentation and placental abruption are not directly linked to pyelonephritis, making them less relevant considerations in this scenario. Thus, ARDS stands out as the severe complication that can arise from pyelonephritis in pregnant individuals.