A very rare case of bone metaplasia of renal cyst: A case report

Renal Osseous Metaplasia (OM) is a rare condition in which mature bone forms within the renal parenchyma, typically as focal cortical lesions. Although it is usually considered a spontaneous and less pathologically significant lesion, it has been observed in damaged renal allografts and other urinary tract sites. The case we present involves a native kidney with a simple renal cyst, where histopathological examination post-tumor enucleation revealed OM, emphasizing its noteworthy presence in clinical settings.

A 37-year-old female with a history of cesarean delivery and recent emergency surgery presented with abdominal and left flank pain. Initial ultrasound revealed a 4.2 cm anechoic cyst in the lower pole of the left kidney, which was confirmed by abdominal computed tomography (CT-scan as a well-defined fluid density cyst with a thick calcified wall. Surgical enucleoresection identified a Stoney hard mass with a unilocular cyst, histopathologically diagnosed as a simple renal cyst with metaplastic bone and hematopoietic elements. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and remained well during the follow-up.

Osseous metaplasia (OM) involves extraskeletal bone formation and is associated with factors such as chronic ischemia and inflammation. While rare in renal pathology, it occurs in native kidneys, damaged renal allografts, and the urinary tract, posing radiological challenges in differentiating it from calcification. Accurate diagnosis requires histopathological examination because of the difficulties in distinguishing OM from calcification on imaging studies.

This case revealed Osseous Metaplasia in a simple cyst of the native kidney, urging vigilance in the diagnosis. While generally benign, its occurrence in damaged renal areas emphasizes its clinical significance, prompting further research. Heightened awareness and thorough examination are crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.