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What Is a Kidney Neoplasm?

Rebecca Harkin
Rebecca Harkin

A kidney neoplasm is an abnormal growth or tumor that can be either benign or malignant. These neoplasms are typically found during an ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan that was ordered to review the internal organs because of some problem with the kidneys or another organ. Fluid-filled neoplasms are often called cysts, while solid neoplasms may also be called tumors, masses, neoplastic cells or neoplasia. Cyst-like neoplasms that look benign are usually not treated, but may be re-evaluated periodically to track any changes. Kidney neoplasms that are dense have a greater chance to be malignant and usually warrant either a more advanced imaging scan or surgery to obtain a sample of the tissue for pathological review.

Once a kidney neoplasm has been identified using an imaging scan, the course of action depends on the consistency of the mass. Neoplasms that resemble a cyst are usually left untreated and are watched periodically for any anatomical changes. Any concentrated neoplasms with a solid core could be malignant and require further investigation. Some physicians may begin by ordering more advanced scans such as three dimensional (3-D) CT scans, CT urography, 3-D MRI angiography or a pyelogram to better see the composition or vascularization of the mass.

A urinalysis is often used to help diagnose a kidney neoplasm.
A urinalysis is often used to help diagnose a kidney neoplasm.

A kidney neoplasm that is solid, appears cancer-like or is 3.5 inches (about 9 cm) or greater is usually cancerous. These masses of neoplastic cells will necessitate a more invasive review to determine whether the cells are malignant. The doctor may order an ureterscopy, urinalysis, a fine needle biopsy of the area or even surgery to obtain a sample of the tumor.

Kidney neoplasms are commonly found during a renal ultrasound.
Kidney neoplasms are commonly found during a renal ultrasound.

Treatment for a malignant kidney neoplasm depends on the size of the tumor, the symptoms the patient is experiencing, other diseases the patient has and the patient’s health and family history. Small tumors that have not metastasized are often treated with a partial nephrectomy or removal of only part of the kidney. A more advanced kidney neoplasm can be treated with a total removal of the kidney called a radical nephrectomy. This is possible because the body has two kidneys. Some neoplasms can also be treated with ablation or the destruction of the abnormal tissue with a cold probe, called percutaneous cryoablation, or with a hot probe, called percutaneous radiofrequency ablation.

Human kidneys.
Human kidneys.

Benign kidney neoplasms rarely have any symptoms. Occasionally, however, benign neoplasms of the kidney will cause kidney stones, frequent urinary tract infections, back pain, blood in the urine, or elevated blood pressure. Malignant kidney neoplasia also do not usually have noticeable symptoms, but occasionally may cause weight loss, blood in the urine, a nagging pain in the back or side, fatigue or a fever.

Discussion Comments

CCrosthwaite

I have a 4.5 centimeter mass on my left kidney that was biopsied and determined to be benign.

At this point, the doctor has decided to just keep an eye on it to see if it continues to grow.

I also have had several large kidney stones in that kidney, including one large (1.7 centimeter) stone lodged in my left ureter, for which a kidney stent was placed and then two lithotripsies were done. The stent was removed last Thursday. Can the mass actually cause stones to form in my kidney?

The stones were determined to be calcium oxalate, which are the most common type.

Can these masses become cancerous? What are the chances of this happening? I'm also on medication for high blood pressure. Are all these connected?

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    • A urinalysis is often used to help diagnose a kidney neoplasm.
      By: Photoroller
      A urinalysis is often used to help diagnose a kidney neoplasm.
    • Kidney neoplasms are commonly found during a renal ultrasound.
      By: jeff gynane
      Kidney neoplasms are commonly found during a renal ultrasound.
    • Human kidneys.
      By: London_England
      Human kidneys.
    • Occasionally, benign neoplasms of the kidney will cause kidney stones.
      By: airborne77
      Occasionally, benign neoplasms of the kidney will cause kidney stones.
    • Kidney neoplasms may be found during a CT scan.
      By: Konstantin Sutyagin
      Kidney neoplasms may be found during a CT scan.