Recurrent bleeding of angiomyolipomas in tuberous sclerosis

The diagnostic and therapeutic problems of renal hamartomas are illustrated by a case of recurrence of bleeding angiomyolipomas associated with tuberous sclerosis. Ultrasound and computed tomography provide clear evidence of lipomatous formation while, in rare instances, angiography can demonstrate the existence of multiple vascular tumor compartments. In view of the risk of bleeding, multiple or very large angiomyolipomas should be treated by interventional radiology in the form of superselective tumor embolization or by the most conservative surgery possible.