DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSTICS OF RENAL CYSTIC LESIONS

Czech version

Authors: prof. MUDr. Vlastimil Válek, CSc.; MUDr. Marek Mechl, Ph.D.
Authors‘ workplace: Radiologická klinika LF MU a FN Brno, pracoviště Bohunice
Published in: Urol List 2006; 4(2): 27-31

Overview

Renal cysts rank among the most frequent findings in renal or abdominal ultrasonography (USG) or computer tomography (CT). Diagnosing “renal cysts” is easy and the characteristics of renal cysts found by imaging methods are well known. There are however cysts whose picture is a complex one including densities (hyperechogenities), calcifications and saturation after application of a contrast agent. Efforts aimed at categorizing renal cystic lesions into groups by their risk of malignity led to the Bosniak proposal for renal cystic lesions classification in 1986.

Advancements in CT from conventional to multislice devices, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonography using modern contrast agents (Sonovue, Bracco) have not led to a major shift in this classification. This is why a number of authors have currently been comparing the accuracy of these methods with respect to the Bosniak classification. The objective of the paper is to sum up the current significance of the Bosniak classification of renal cysts and the potential of the different imaging methods.

KEY WORDS:
cyst, Bosniak, Bosniak classification, cystic renal carcinoma

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