Sarcoidosis associated with renal masses on computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Pulmonology
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Sarcoidosis is a multisystem inflammatory disease characterized by noncaseating granulomas.
• Renal involvement in sarcoidosis is uncommon but can manifest as mass-like lesions.
• Differential diagnosis of renal masses often includes malignancy, necessitating thorough investigation.

Observation:

• A 50-year-old woman presented with renal masses and mediastinal lymphadenopathy on CT.
• She had a history of uveitis and elevated serum soluble IL2 receptor levels.
• Abdominal CT revealed multiple bilateral renal nodules suspicious for malignancy.

Findings:

• CT-guided renal biopsy showed noncaseating granulomas, excluding lymphoma.
• Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid analysis revealed a pattern consistent with sarcoidosis.
• The patient was diagnosed with sarcoidosis involving the kidneys.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering sarcoidosis in the differential diagnosis of renal masses, even with atypical presentations.
• Early and accurate diagnosis of renal sarcoidosis is crucial for appropriate management and prevention of potential renal dysfunction.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration between nephrology, pulmonology, and ophthalmology is vital for comprehensive patient care.