Vascular pseudotumors of the kidney

Eleven cases of vascular pseudotumors were reviewed and grouped into four categories according to clinical and radiological findings. On the IVP we found two patterns of filling defects: [1] Smooth indentations or filling defects in AV fistulas and renal artery aneurysms and also in the case of a congenital AV malformation due to an enlarged draining vein. [2] Multiple mottled filling defects caused by collaterals in stenoses of renal artery branches. This appearance is also described in the literature for congenital AV malformations. The angiographic findings in each of the four categories are discussed. The role of angiography is stressed as the diagnostic test of choice to establish the correct diagnosis of these benign lesions and to define optimal treatment.