[Malignant tumours in horseshoe kidneys (author's transl)]

Hypernephromas were found in horseshoe kidneys in two patients; the diagnostic problems arising from this combination are discussed. Detailed demonstration of horseshoe kidneys by excretion urograms may be poor and tumours may therefore be overlooked and, on palpation, an abnormality within the gastrointestinal tract may be simulated. Angiography usually indicates the diagnosis and helps in planning surgery. Although there is no increase in the incidence of adeno-carcinomas in horseshoe kidneys, there is a significant increase in the incidence of Wilm's tumours and of carcinomas of the renal pelvis. Treatment consists of heminephrectomy or resection of the tumour; complications are relatively common.