[Calcified masses of the kidney. Apropos of 58 cases]

Case reports were analyzed of patients with calcified renal masses observed in the department since 1968. Of the 65 radiologic reports reviewed, 7 were rejected since the course since diagnosis was unknown. Of the 58 case reports studied, 34 were of masses of certain diagnosis, 12 undetermined, 7 of masses in polycystic kidneys, 3 in tuberculous kidneys and 3 probably calcified hematomas. Analysis involved only those masses of proven diagnosis. Results confirmed the absence of specificity in favor of the cyst of peripheral character of calcifications: 33% of these masses were cancers. The existence of tissue calcification is synonymous of a solid mass, nearly always malignant (92% of cases). For peripherally calcified masses, arteriography was not sufficient to affirm benign nature of lesions, most of these masses having a particularly poorly vascularized or even avascular appearance. In these cases angiotensin was of special interest. Ultrasound imaging proved to be a reliable and perfectly sensitive examination. The presence of calcifications rarely interfered with study of tumoral contents. CT scan imaging and puncture biopsy were also perfectly sensitive and reliable examinations. Because of the high frequency of cancers in masses with peripheral calcification, all these masses should be surgically explored or at least punctured. Although a "benign" CT scan image appears sufficient to affirm the benign nature, this still requires more ample confirmation.