Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2026
09:31
In Vivo, Percutaneous, Needle Based, Optical Coherence Tomography of Renal Masses
Published on: March 30, 2015
Hyperechoic renal cell carcinomas: increase in detection at US
H P Forman1, W D Middleton, G L Melson
1Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110.
Radiology
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Increased detection of small renal cell carcinomas (RCCAs) has led to a rise in hyperechoic RCCAs. This includes a growing number of these cancers mimicking angiomyolipomas (AMLs).
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Recent trends show an increase in small renal cell carcinomas (RCCAs) and hyperechoic presentations.
- Hyperechoic RCCAs can mimic angiomyolipomas (AMLs), potentially leading to misdiagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if increased detection of small RCCAs has altered the frequency of hyperechoic RCCAs.
- To determine the impact on the detection rate of RCCAs that mimic AMLs.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of sonographic features of 90 pathologically proven RCCAs in 82 patients.
- Correlation of tumor echogenicity and size (≤3 cm vs. >3 cm) with normal renal parenchyma.
Main Results:
- Ten of 31 small tumors (32%) were markedly hyperechoic, mimicking AMLs, compared to one of 59 larger tumors (2%) (P < .001).
- Overall, 11 of 90 tumors (12%) were markedly hyperechoic.
- Small tumors were significantly more likely to be hyperechoic (77%) than larger tumors (32%) (P < .001).
Conclusions:
- The increasing detection of small renal cell carcinomas has resulted in a higher incidence of hyperechoic RCCAs.
- This trend also contributes to an increased frequency of renal cell carcinomas mimicking angiomyolipomas.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography
IntroductionUltrasonography, or renal ultrasound, is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and surrounding tissues.Indications for Urinary System UltrasonographyUrinary system ultrasonography is indicated in various clinical scenarios, such as:Kidney Stones (Urolithiasis): To detect and monitor the size and presence of kidney or urinary tract stones.Hydronephrosis: To assess the dilation of the renal pelvis and...
01:22Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography
IntroductionIntravenous Urography (IVU) and Retrograde Pyelography (RP) are important diagnostic imaging techniques used to evaluate the urinary system. These methods help identify structural abnormalities, obstructions, and functional issues in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Both procedures use iodine-based contrast media to enhance the visibility of urinary tract structures on X-ray images, though they differ in their methods and indications.1. Intravenous Urography (IVU)Intravenous...