[The radiological exploration of renal tumour syndromes [author's transl)]

Four radiological examinations are available to the clinician for the diagnosis of renal tumour syndromes: intravenous pyelography with vascular nephrotomography is used to make an initial classification. Hypervascularised masses, usually malignant, remain the indication of choice for renal arteriography. Apparently avascular or doubtful masses should first be studied by ultrasound echotomography which offers the possibility of a second classification into fluid-filled tumours, the cystic nature of which may be confirmed by translumbar puncture followed by kystography, and solid or doubtful tumours, suggestive above all of a necrosed carcinoma. In this latter case, the indications for renal arteriography with the use of angiotensin, translumbar puncture or immediate exploratory lumbotomy must be decided in the light of individual cases and local preferences.