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Small renal parenchymal neoplasms: further observations on growth
M A Bosniak1, B A Birnbaum, G A Krinsky
1Department of Radiology, New York University Medical Center, NY 10016, USA.
Purpose:
To determine the growTH rate and behavior of small (< or = 3.5-cm diameter) incidentally detected renal parenchymal neoplasms.
Materials And Methods:
Forty renal parenchymal tumors in 37 adult patients (mean age, 65.5 years) were observed with computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound for 1.75-8.5 years (mean, 3.25 years). Surgical removal was performed of 26 tumors proved and graded at pathologic examination. Fourteen tumors with CT criteria of neoplasm are being followed up.
Results:
The overall growth rate of neoplasms was 0-1.1 cm/y (mean, 0.36 cm/y). Thirty tumors grew 0.5 cm/y or less and 19 grew very slowly (< or = 0.35 cm/y). No patient developed metastatic disease. Nine (24%) had multiple neoplasms.
Conclusion:
Most small, incidentally discovered, well-marginated renal parenchymal neoplasms grow slowly and are not an immediate threat to a patient's life. Watchful waiting might be appropriate instead of surgical removal, especially in patients who are elderly or may not survive surgery.