Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026
09:31
In Vivo, Percutaneous, Needle Based, Optical Coherence Tomography of Renal Masses
Published on: March 30, 2015
Small (< or = 4 cm) cortical renal tumors: characterization with multidetector CT
Ghazi Alshumrani1, Martin O'Malley, Sangeet Ghai
1Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
Abdominal Imaging
|June 19, 2009
Summary
Multidetector CT can predict small solid renal tumor pathology. Papillary renal cell carcinomas show less enhancement than clear cell renal cell carcinomas and oncocytomas on CT scans.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Solid renal tumors under 4 cm pose diagnostic challenges.
- Accurate preoperative pathology prediction is crucial for treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate if multidetector computed tomography (CT) findings can predict the pathology of small solid renal tumors (< or = 4 cm).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 47 small renal tumors in 46 patients.
- Triphasic renal CT scans were reviewed by two radiologists blinded to pathology.
- Morphologic and enhancement features were correlated with surgical pathology.
Main Results:
- Tumor types included clear cell renal cell carcinoma (55%), oncocytoma (19%), and papillary renal cell carcinoma (15%).
- Heterogeneity was common in clear cell RCC (88%) and oncocytoma (67%).
- Absolute nephrographic phase enhancement was significantly lower in papillary RCC (16 HU) compared to clear cell RCC (65 HU) and oncocytoma (80 HU).
Conclusions:
- Absolute nephrographic phase enhancement of <= 32 HU effectively distinguishes papillary renal cell carcinomas from clear cell renal cell carcinomas and oncocytomas.
- CT-based enhancement patterns aid in differentiating common small renal tumor subtypes.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
DefinitionComputed Tomography (CT) of the genitourinary (GU) tract is a non-invasive imaging modality that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and adjacent structures such as the adrenal glands.PurposeCT scans of the GU tract serve several diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Diseases: Detects kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and congenital...
01:27Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Introduction:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, can include a specialized imaging technique of the urinary system known as Magnetic Resonance Urography (MRU). This radiation-free technique uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images with the help of a computer. MRU is particularly effective for visualizing fluid-filled structures like the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.Applications of MRI in the Genitourinary SystemKidneys and Ureters: MRI detects tumors, cysts,...
01:28Imaging Studies I: Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder Studies
Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) StudiesKidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) studies are standard diagnostic imaging procedures used to assess the anatomy of the urinary system. They are commonly utilized for patients experiencing abdominal pain or urinary symptoms. By using a simple X-ray of the abdomen, KUB studies can reveal structural and pathological abnormalities within the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. These studies are particularly valuable in diagnosing kidney stones, urinary...
01:10Computed Tomography
Tomography refers to imaging by sections. Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses computers to analyze several cross-sectional X-rays to reveal minute details about structures in the body.
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...