Imaging in Oncology

Role of Percutaneous Biopsy and Aspiration in Patients with Cystic Renal Masses

Claudia Berman, MD
Radiology Service, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute

This regular feature will enhance your knowledge of imaging technology in oncologic diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation.

Case Description:

An asymptomatic 46-year-old woman had elevated liver enzymes on routine testing performed prior to undergoing a weight-reduction program. Computed tomography (CT) of the liver found no abnormalities, but a cystic renal mass was discovered. Ultrasound (US) examination followed. The CT scan and US examination (Figs 1A and 1B) were reported to show a multiloculated or septated cystic mass vs a conglomeration of multiple simple cysts confined to the upper pole of the right kidney.

The images show a multiloculated cystic mass. A working differential diagnosis of this type of mass in this patient should include:

1. multiloculated cystic nephroma

2. renal cell carcinoma

3. localized cystic disease of the kidney

4. all of the above

Turn to the next page for answer and discussion
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