[Diagnosis and management of small solid renal masses]

Discovery of small solid renal masses via echography, CT-scan or MRI is common in current medical practice, with more than 70 % found incidentally. Although they include benign lesions, most are renal cell carcinomas. A radiological assessment, associated if necessary with a percutaneous renal biopsy, leads to their diagnosis in the vast majority of cases. Minimally invasive partial nephrectomy has become the standard surgical technique in specialized centers. Ablative therapies (radiofrequency and cryotherapy) and active surveillance are other possible therapeutic approaches. A benefit-risk assessment of these treatments considering patient age, kidney function and comorbidities, is key in the management of these small solid renal masses.