Intra-renal splenosis mimicking a solid renal mass.

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Radiology
• Nuclear Medicine

Background:

• A young woman presented with an exophytic solid renal mass, initially considered for ablation or partial nephrectomy.
• The patient had a history of splenectomy, prompting consideration of alternative diagnoses beyond typical renal neoplasms.

Observation:

• Ultrasound revealed a homogeneous solid left renal mass.
• The clinical history of splenectomy was a key factor in considering intra-renal splenosis.

Findings:

• Technetium-99m heat-damaged red blood cell scintigraphy definitively diagnosed intra-renal splenosis.
• This non-invasive imaging technique obviated the need for surgical intervention or biopsy.

Implications:

• Intra-renal splenosis should be included in the differential diagnosis for solid renal masses in patients with a history of splenic trauma or splenectomy.
• Nuclear medicine imaging can provide a non-invasive diagnosis, guiding management and avoiding unnecessary procedures.