Calyceal diverticulum - a mimic of different pathologies on multiple imaging modalities

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Calyceal diverticula are outpouchings of a renal calyx.
• They are frequently discovered incidentally during radiological examinations.
• While generally benign, they can lead to complications like infection or stone formation.

Observation:

• This case highlights a calyceal diverticulum incidentally found in a patient.
• The diverticulum was visualized across multiple imaging modalities, including ultrasound, computed tomography, intravenous urogram, and bone scintigraphy.
• The imaging characteristics mimicked other serious pathologies.

Findings:

• Calyceal diverticula can present a diagnostic challenge due to their potential to imitate more severe renal and bone conditions.
• Differential diagnoses must be considered to accurately identify calyceal diverticula.
• Radiological imaging plays a crucial role in both detection and characterization.

Implications:

• Accurate identification of calyceal diverticula is essential to prevent misdiagnosis of conditions like renal tumors or bone metastases.
• Understanding the imaging appearance of calyceal diverticula aids clinicians in appropriate patient management.
• This case underscores the importance of comprehensive radiological assessment and differential diagnosis in interpreting incidental findings.