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Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Use of Ultra-high Field MRI in Small Rodent Models of Polycystic Kidney Disease for In Vivo Phenotyping and Drug Monitoring
Published on: June 23, 2015
[Foreign body as renal pseudotumor in a patient with renal polycystic kidney]
M J Rebassa Llull1, D Muñoz Vélez, F Hidalgo Pardo
1Servicio de Urología, Hospital Son Dureta, Palma de Mallorca, España.
Objective:
To report a case of granuloma due to a retained surgical sponge that mimicked a pseudotumor in a patient with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. The appearance of retained surgical sponges on diagnostic imaging is reviewed.
Methods:
Patient evaluation included renal ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arteriography.
Results:
MRI provides characteristic features that permit preoperative diagnosis.
Conclusions:
In the presence of a mass or abscess in patients who have previously undergone surgery, a retained surgical sponge should be included in the differential diagnosis. MRI permits preoperative diagnosis.
Insights
A retained surgical sponge can mimic a pseudotumor in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) aids in preoperative diagnosis of this rare complication.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Surgical Complications
- Nephrology
Background:
- Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a common genetic disorder.
- Retained surgical sponges are a rare but serious complication following surgery.
- Pseudotumors can arise from various causes, complicating diagnosis.
Observation:
- A case of granuloma formation due to a retained surgical sponge mimicking a pseudotumor in an ADPKD patient.
- Diagnostic imaging, including renal ultrasound, MRI, and arteriography, was utilized for evaluation.
- MRI revealed characteristic features suggestive of the retained sponge.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers distinct imaging characteristics for preoperative diagnosis of retained surgical sponges.
- The granuloma presented as a mass, closely resembling a pseudotumor in the affected kidney.
- Early identification is crucial to prevent further complications.
Implications:
- Retained surgical sponges should be considered in the differential diagnosis of masses or abscesses in patients with a surgical history.
- MRI is a valuable tool for the preoperative diagnosis of retained surgical sponges.
- This case highlights the importance of meticulous surgical practice and awareness of potential complications.
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