[Imaging diagnostics of kidney tumors : Scores and classification systems]

Renal cell carcinoma is one of the most common cancers and its mortality rate is falling due to continuous advances in diagnostics and treatment. Early detection using imaging techniques enables treatment with curative intent, resulting in a correspondingly favorable prognosis. Classification systems such as the TNM and Bosniak classifications as well as nephrometric scores, particularly the R.E.N.A.L. score, assist in prognosis assessment and support individualized treatment planning. They help to assess tumor complexity and the subsequent risk of postoperative or postinterventional complications; however, other anatomical and clinical factors, apart from nephrometric scores, must also be considered for an optimal individual treatment decision.