Renal epithelial fragments in urine from a nephrostomized patient: a case report

Renal epithelial fragments, an infrequently reported entity, were observed by cytologists in urine sediment from a patient who underwent nephrostomy for the relief of a ureteral obstruction. This case report describes the occurrence and various cytomorphologic features of exfoliated renal fragments. Urine specimens obtained following the insertion of a nephrostomy tube can provide the cytologist a unique opportunity to study and distinguish renal epithelial fragments from those of urothelial origin.