Prevalence of renal cysts and association with risk factors in a general population: an MRI-based study

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound in renal cystic lesions: an update

This narrative review aims to describe the current status of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in characterizing renal cystic lesion. The imaging techniques usually performed for their evaluation are ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with different criteria of application based on the individual case and the purpose of the examination. Generally, US, as a non-ionizing examination, is the first imaging modality performed and therefore the one that incidentally detects cystic lesions. CT is the most performed imaging modality for cystic lesion assessment before MRI evaluation. It provides better characterization and management and has been introduced into the Bosniak classification. In this context, CEUS is making its way for its characteristics and represents the emerging technique in this field. With these premises, the authors analyze the role of CEUS in the evaluation of renal cysts, starting with an explanation of the technique, describe its main advantages and limitations, and end with a discussion of its application in the Bosniak classification and management, following the current major guidelines.

Increased prevalence of kidney cysts in individuals carrying heterozygous COL4A3 or COL4A4 pathogenic variants

BACKGROUND

Clinical variability among individuals with heterozygous pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants in the COL4A3/COL4A4 genes (also called autosomal dominant Alport syndrome or COL4A3/COL4A4-related disorder) is huge; many individuals are asymptomatic or show microhematuria, while others may develop proteinuria and chronic kidney disease (CKD). The prevalence of simple kidney cysts (KC) in the general population varies according to age, and patients with advanced CKD are prone to have them. A possible association between heterozygous COL4A3, COL4A4 and COL4A5 P/LP variants and KC has been described in small cohorts. The presence of KC in a multicenter cohort of individuals with heterozygous P/LP variants in the COL4A3/COL4A4 genes is assessed in this study.

METHODS

We evaluated the presence of KC by ultrasound in 157 individuals with P/LP variants in COL4A3 (40.7%) or COL4A4 (53.5%) without kidney replacement therapy. The association between presence of KC and age, proteinuria, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and causative gene was analyzed. Prevalence of KC was compared with historical case series in the general population.

RESULTS

Half of the individuals with P/LP variants in COL4A3/COL4A4 showed KC, which is a significantly higher percentage than in the general population. Only 3.8% (6/157) had cystic nephromegaly. Age and eGFR showed an association with the presence of KC (P < .001). No association was found between KC and proteinuria, sex or causative gene.

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with COL4A3/COL4A4 P/LP variants are prone to develop KC more frequently than the general population, and their presence is related to age and to eGFR. Neither proteinuria, sex nor the causative gene influences the presence of KC in these individuals.

Forget Me Not: Incidental Findings on Breast MRI

With the growing utilization and expanding role of breast MRI, breast imaging radiologists may encounter an increasing number of incidental findings beyond the breast and axilla. Breast MRI encompasses a large area of anatomic coverage extending from the lower neck to the upper abdomen. While most incidental findings on breast MRI are benign, identifying metastatic disease can have a substantial impact on staging, prognosis, and treatment. Breast imaging radiologists should be familiar with common sites, MRI features, and breast cancer subtypes associated with metastatic disease to assist in differentiating malignant from benign findings. Furthermore, detection of malignancies of nonbreast origin as well as nonmalignant, but clinically relevant, incidental findings can significantly impact clinical management and patient outcomes. Breast imaging radiologists should consistently follow a comprehensive search pattern and employ techniques to improve the detection of these important incidental findings.

Optimizing the kidney donor pool: transplanting donor kidneys after partial nephrectomy of masses or cysts

Background

A limiting factor in expanding the kidney donor pool is donor kidneys with renal tumors or cysts. Partial nephrectomy (PN) to remove these lesions prior to transplantation may help optimize organ usage without recurrence of malignancy or increased risk of complications.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all recipients of a living or deceased donor graft between February 2009 and October 2022 in which a PN was performed prior to transplant due to the presence of one or more concerning growths. Donor and recipient demographics, perioperative data, donor allograft pathology, and recipient outcomes were obtained.

Results

Thirty-six recipients received a graft in which a PN was performed to remove suspicious masses or cysts prior to transplant. Majority of pathologies turned out to be a simple renal cyst (65%), followed by renal cell carcinoma (15%), benign multilocular cystic renal neoplasm (7.5%), angiomyolipoma (5%), benign renal tissue (5%), and papillary adenoma (2.5%). No renal malignancy recurrences were observed during the study period (median follow-up: 67.2 months). Fourteen complications occurred among 11 patients (30.6% overall) during the first 6mo post-transplant. Mean eGFR (± standard error) at 36 months post-transplant was 51.9 ± 4.2 ml/min/1.73 m2 (N = 23). Three death-censored graft losses and four deaths with a functioning graft and were observed.

Conclusion

PN of renal grafts with suspicious looking masses or cysts is a safe option to optimize organ usage and decrease the kidney non-use rate, with no observed recurrence of malignancy or increased risk of complications.

The prevalence and associated risk factors of detectable renal morphological abnormalities in acromegaly

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of simple renal cysts (SRCs) and kidney stone disease (KSD) together with laboratory data in patients with acromegaly through comparisons with healthy subjects, and to examine the possible risk factors associated with these abnormalities in acromegaly.

METHODS

This retrospective, single-center study included 125 acromegaly patients (46.4 ± 11.6 years, 68 females/57 males) and 114 age-sex matched healthy individuals (45.3 ± 12.4 years, 59 females/55 males). Demographic data, clinical history, biochemical and abdominal/urinary system ultrasonographic data of the patients were reviewed.

RESULTS

The SRC prevalence (28.8% vs. 8.8%, p < 0.001) and the longitudinal and transverse lengths of kidneys (p < 0.05) were significantly higher in patients with acromegaly compared to the control group. The presence of acromegaly was determined to increase the risk of SRC formation 12.8-fold. The prevalence of KSD was similar in both the patient and control groups (15.2% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.08). Patients with acromegaly with renal cysts (n = 36) compared to the group without cysts (n = 89) were older, had a higher male gender frequency, a longer pre-diagnosis symptom duration, and a higher incidence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus at the time of diagnosis. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that only advanced age and male gender were associated risk factors for SRCs in acromegaly patients.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that acromegaly disease significantly increased the prevalence of SRCs and kidney length compared to the age-sex matched healthy population, while the prevalence of KSD was similar. Advanced age and male gender were seen to be independent risk factors for SRC formation in patients with acromegaly.

Contrast enhanced ultrasound of cystic renal lesions, from diagnosis up to treatment

Ultrasound is the most used interdisciplinary imaging technique in clinical routine for assessment of renal pathologies. This includes the monitoring of cystic renal lesions, which can be classified as non-complicated or complicated and by means of occurrence as solitary or multifocal lesions. The Bosniak-classification (I-IV) classifies renal cysts in 5 different categories and is used for decisions of further clinical treatment. This classification was developed for computed tomography and has been adopted for magnetic resonance imaging as well as contrast-enhanced ultrasound. In the following review article, cystic kidney lesions and their differentiation using contrast-enhanced ultrasound are presented and an overview of the therapy options is given. In interventional procedures, CEUS can make a valuable contribution in histological sampling, reduce radiation exposure and, under certain circumstances, the number of interventions for the patient.

Prevalence of Incidental Extraspinal Findings on MR Imaging of the Lumbar Spine in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Low back pain is common worldwide. MR imaging may identify extraspinal findings that are not related to the proposed clinical question. The prevalence of extraspinal incidental findings and their clinical significance has not been well-established.

PURPOSE

This review aimed to evaluate the prevalence of extraspinal findings on MR imaging of the lumbar spine in adults and the prevalence of clinically significant incidental findings.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search of MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed, including studies published before June 14, 2023.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies presenting a prevalence of extraspinal findings in patients 16 years of age or older were included.

DATA ANALYSIS

A random effects meta-analysis was used to generate composite prevalence measures of extraspinal findings, patients with extraspinal findings, and clinically significant findings.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Sixteen studies were included in this meta-analysis, with a total of 19,593 patients and 6,006 extraspinal incidental findings. The overall prevalence of extraspinal findings was 19.9% (95% CI, 11.1%-30.7%). Overall, 26.7% of patients had an extraspinal finding identified (95% CI, 14.8%-40.6%). The most common subgroup of extraspinal findings was genitourinary findings in males (27.1%; 95% CI, 25.6%-28.8%). Data from 8 studies demonstrated the prevalence of clinically significant findings at 5.4% (95% CI, 3.2%-8.1%).

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective populations with small numbers of participants in clinically relevant subgroups may result in heterogeneity and imprecision within composite outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS

Extraspinal findings are common, detected in more than one-quarter of patients. Five percent of findings are clinically significant and may require further action.

Renal function in very old critically ill patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Current demographic change leads to higher number of elderly patients admitted to an ICU. Among other organs also the kidneys show age-related changes, which are associated with a decline in various aspects of renal function. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of structural and functional changes in elderly and also to specifically address the increased risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in this population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Ageing in the kidneys is affected by many different factors, such as low grade chronic inflammation, called inflammageing, and various comorbidities. Nevertheless, a decrease of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) occurs independent of the presence of comorbidities and a steady decline of GFR has been reported in both healthy men and women. Pharmacodynamic of many drugs is altered by these changes. Additionally the rate of diuretic resistance appears to be increased. The cause of AKI occurrence in older age is, multifactorial and includes preventable triggers (hypovolemia, hypotension, nephrotoxins) as well as changes associated with aging.

SUMMARY

Age-related alterations of the kidneys were found at microscopic and macroscopic levels of the cell. These changes lead to a reduced renal reserve and subsequently to an increased vulnerability of aged kidneys when an additional stressor is added. Age is an independent risk factor for developing AKI. Physicians should take into account the altered renal function in elderly patients and take renal protective measures at an early stage.

CEUS Bosniak Classification-Time for Differentiation and Change in Renal Cyst Surveillance

It is time for a change. CEUS is an established method that should be much more actively included in renal cyst monitoring strategies. This review compares the accuracies, strengths, and weaknesses of CEUS, CECT, and MRI in the classification of renal cysts. In order to avoid overstaging by CEUS, a further differentiation of classes IIF, III, and IV is required. A further development in the refinement of the CEUS-Bosniak classification aims to integrate CEUS more closely into the monitoring of renal cysts and to develop new and complex monitoring algorithms.

Patent highlights February-March 2023

A snapshot of noteworthy recent developments in the patent literature of relevance to pharmaceutical and medical research and development.

The Changing Role of Renal Mass Biopsy

The incidence and prevalence of small renal masses (SRMs) continues to rise and with increased detection comes increases in surgical management, although the probability of an SRM being benign is upward of 30%. An extirpative treatment first diagnose-later strategy persists and clinical tools for risk stratification such as renal mass biopsy remain severely underutilized. The overtreatment of SRMs has multiple detrimental effects including surgical complications, psychosocial stress, financial loss, and reduced renal function leading to downstream effects such as the need for dialysis and cardiovascular disease.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of simple renal cysts in primary hyperparathyroidism

PURPOSE

Previous studies have pointed to the role of parathormone (PTH) in the development of simple renal cysts. However, there is insufficient evidence related to simple renal cysts in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors associated with renal cysts in PHPT patients.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we included 235 patients treated surgically for PHPT and 147 control subjects. The clinical and physical examination findings, laboratory test results, and neck and urinary system ultrasonography examination findings were evaluated. Postoperative parathyroid adenoma volume and weight were also recorded.

RESULTS

Simple renal cysts were found in 53 PHPT patients (22.6%) and in 15 control subjects (10.2%) (p = 0.002). Kidney stones were found in 33 PHPT patients (14%) and in only seven control subjects (4.8%) (p = 0.004). The presence of PHPT and high PTH levels independently supported the development of a simple renal cyst. Advanced age was determined as a risk factor for the development of simple renal cysts, and the presence of kidney stones was an independent predictor of simple renal cysts in PHPT patients. There was no relationship between the presence of simple renal cysts and the volume and weight of parathyroid adenoma.

CONCLUSION

A diagnosis of PHPT, high PTH levels, advanced age, and kidney stones are independent risk factors for simple renal cysts in PHPT patients. These patients should be evaluated regularly for complications of renal cysts and nephrolithiasis.

Characteristic Chest Computed Tomography Findings for Birt-Hogg-Dube Syndrome Indicating Requirement for Genetic Evaluation

Background: Chest computed tomography (CT) findings are important for identifying Birt−Hogg−Dube (BHD) syndrome. However, the predictive power of classical criteria for chest CT findings is weak. Here, we aimed to identify more specific chest CT findings necessitating genetic examination for FLCN gene mutations. Methods: From June 2016 to December 2017, we prospectively enrolled 21 patients with multiple bilateral and basally located lung cysts on chest CT with no other apparent cause, including cases with and without spontaneous primary pneumothorax. All enrolled patients underwent FLCN mutation testing for diagnosis confirmation. Results: BHD was diagnosed in 10 of 21 enrolled patients (47.6%). There were no differences in clinical features between the BHD and non-BHD groups. Maximal cyst diameter was significantly greater in the BHD group (mean ± standard deviation; 4.1 ± 1.1 cm) than in the non-BHD group (1.6 ± 0.9 cm; p < 0.001). Diversity in cyst size was observed in 100.0% of BHD cases and 18.2% of non-BHD cases (p = 0.001). Morphological diversity was observed in 100.0% of BHD cases and 54.6% of non-BHD cases (p = 0.054). Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for predicting FLCN gene mutations were 0.955 and 0.909 for maximal cyst diameter and diversity in size, respectively. The optimal cut-off value for maximal diameter FLCN mutations prediction was 2.1 cm (sensitivity: 99%; specificity: 82%). Conclusions: Reliable chest CT features suggesting the need for FLCN gene mutations screening include variations in cyst size and the presence of cysts > 2.1 cm in diameter, predominantly occurring in the bilateral basal lungs.

State of the Science for Kidney Disorders in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome: UPK3A, FBLN1, WNT7B, and CELSR1 as Candidate Genes

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by chromosomal rearrangements affecting the 22q13.3 region or by SHANK3 pathogenic variants. The scientific literature suggests that up to 40% of individuals with PMS have kidney disorders, yet little research has been conducted on the renal system to assess candidate genes attributed to these disorders. Therefore, we first conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify kidney disorders in PMS and then pooled the data to create a cohort of individuals to identify candidate genes for renal disorders in PMS. We found 7 types of renal disorders reported: renal cysts, renal hypoplasia or agenesis, hydronephrosis, vesicoureteral reflux, kidney dysplasia, horseshoe kidneys, and pyelectasis. Association analysis from the pooled data from 152 individuals with PMS across 22 articles identified three genomic regions spanning chromosomal bands 22q13.31, 22q13.32, and 22q13.33, significantly associated with kidney disorders. We propose UPK3A, FBLN1, WNT7B, and CELSR1, located from 4.5 Mb to 5.5 Mb from the telomere, as candidate genes. Our findings support the hypothesis that genes included in this region may play a role in the pathogenesis of kidney disorders in PMS.

The Diagnostic Yield of Abdominal Ultrasounds Requested by Family Physicians at an Academic Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Background: Abdominal ultrasound is a non-invasive, relatively inexpensive, and widely available diagnostic modality in family medicine settings.

Objectives: Our study aimed to identify the most common indications for requesting abdominal ultrasounds by family physicians, determine the frequency of abdominal ultrasound with abnormal findings, identify the most common findings, and determine patients’ characteristics associated with abnormal findings.

Methods: This retrospective chart-based study was conducted from January 2020 to June 2020 to analyze patients’ abdominal ultrasounds reports requested by family physicians in 2019 at King Khalid University Hospital (KKUH), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Results: We assessed abdominal ultrasound reports of 1,113 patients. There were 620 (55.7%) female patients. The mean age and body mass index (BMI) were 46.35 years ± 15.04 and 29.33 kg/m² ± 7.06, respectively. The most common indications were abdominal pain (43.2%), suspicion of gallbladder and biliary system diseases (18.5%), and abnormal liver function tests (14.6%). The frequency of abnormal findings was 793 (71.2%), and the most common findings were fatty liver infiltration (49.7%), liver enlargement (20.1%), and gallstones (13.3%). Females had a lower likelihood to have abnormal findings compared to males (odds ratio (OR)=0.688, p=0.009). Lastly, the likelihood of abnormal findings increased with age and was highest among patients aged 71 years or more (OR=25.9, p< 0.001).

Conclusion: Abnormal findings were more prevalent in our study compared with other studies. Abnormal findings were more common among males and older age groups. We recommend future studies on patients from community-based family medicine settings, and to examine the association of abnormal findings with patient-centered endpoints. Finally, disseminating the results of this study will inform family physicians with the most common abnormal abdominal ultrasound findings, and will enhance the discussion with patients undergoing an abdominal ultrasound examination.

Proposed clinical approach and imaging studies in families with oculo-auriculo-vertebral spectrum to assess variable expressivity

A diagnosis of oculo-auriculo-vertebral spectrum (OAVS) is established when microtia is present in association with hemifacial hypoplasia (HH) and/or ocular, vertebral, and/or renal malformations. There is no consensus on which imaging studies should be used to rule out variable expressivity and distinguish "sporadic" from "familial" patients. This observational and descriptive study was performed in a Mexican population of 51 patients (32 males, 19 females, 0-18 years old) with microtia/OAVS, and their available parents. A clinical history, genealogy, and physical examination were obtained from all included patients, as were a computed tomography (CT) scan of the ear, audiological evaluation, orthopantomography, complete spine radiography, and renal ultrasound. The same approach was completed in their available parents (51 mothers and 40 fathers), excluding the CT scan and audiological evaluation. By genealogy, 53% of patients were classified as "sporadic"; of the "familial" patients, at least 79.1% had suggestion of a multifactorial inheritance. In the available parents, orthopantomography, complete spine X-ray, and renal ultrasound identified the following OAVS-related manifestations: HH (16.2%, n = 14/86), vertebral alterations (10.9%, n = 10/91), and renal anomalies (2.2%, n = 2/90). Our evaluation of the parents allowed three patients to be reclassified from "sporadic" to "familial" (5.8%, n = 3/51). Our proposed clinical and imaging approach allowed the identification of variable expressivity that more clearly distinguished between "sporadic" and "familial" OAVS patients, which is of utmost importance in providing proper genetic counseling to these families.

Relationship Between Sporadic Renal Cysts and Renal Function Detected by Isotope Renography in Type 2 Diabetes

PURPOSE

This study aimed to reveal the relationship between the volume of sporadic renal cysts and renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and seventy-one patients that underwent renal imaging and other routine examinations at the Shanghai Pudong Hospital were included in this study. The Gates' method of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured by ^99mTc-DTPA renal dynamic imaging in addition to the eGFR, calculated by the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation (CKD-EPI).

RESULTS

Our results showed that BMI, total iGFR, and eGFR showed significant differences between patients with T2D with or without SRC (p < 0.05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that cyst volume was positively correlated with Scr and gender but not iGFR (p > 0.05). The total iGFR positively correlated with eGFR (r = 0.83, p < 0.0001) and negatively with Scr (r = -0.78, p < 0.0001), age (r = -0.43, p < 0.0001), duration of T2D (r = -0.25, p = 0.001), and BMI (r = -0.21, p = 0.006) but not gender (r = -0.03, p = 0.668). The multilinear regression model revealed that gender (β = 0.346, p < 0.001), iGFR (β = -0.705, p < 0.001), and serum uric acid (β = 0.195, p = 0.032) were independent predictors of Scr. Moreover, we observed a significant increase in Scr in males (p < 0.05). Finally, we found that the split kidney function reflected by iGFR and related parameters such as time to peak (PTT) and half time of excretion (excrete t1/2) did not mutually distinguish from each other significantly whether they are measured in patients with renal cysts or in those without renal cysts (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our preliminary results suggest that in T2D, SRCs may be a renal complication of diabetic nephropathy. Although we found that the patients with renal cysts may display reduced iGFR, the volume of simple cysts seems not to exacerbate renal insufficiency. Isotope renography is a useful tool to evaluate the split kidney functions in diabetic patients who acquire single-side cysts.

SHIP-MR and Radiology: 12 Years of Whole-Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging in a Single Center

The Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP), a population-based study from a rural state in northeastern Germany with a relatively poor life expectancy, supplemented its comprehensive examination program in 2008 with whole-body MR imaging at 1.5 T (SHIP-MR). We reviewed more than 100 publications that used the SHIP-MR data and analyzed which sequences already produced fruitful scientific outputs and which manuscripts have been referenced frequently. Upon reviewing the publications about imaging sequences, those that used T1-weighted structured imaging of the brain and a gradient-echo sequence for R2* mapping obtained the highest scientific output; regarding specific body parts examined, most scientific publications focused on MR sequences involving the brain and the (upper) abdomen. We conclude that population-based MR imaging in cohort studies should define more precise goals when allocating imaging time. In addition, quality control measures might include recording the number and impact of published work, preferably on a bi-annual basis and starting 2 years after initiation of the study. Structured teaching courses may enhance the desired output in areas that appear underrepresented.

Renal and Lung Cysts in Birt-Hogg-Dubé Syndrome: A Continuum of the Same Disorder

Birt-Hogg-Dubé (BHD) syndrome is a rare autosomal-dominant disorder, affecting multiple organs, mostly the skin, lungs, and kidneys. The prevalence of BHD syndrome is difficult to define given the rarity of the disease. Patients present most often with primary spontaneous pneumothorax. Renal tumors are a characteristic finding in BHD, and are often bilateral and multifocal and of the chromophobe and oncocytoma variant. Very scarce reports have highlighted the presence of simple renal cysts, as the only phenotypical renal manifestation, in BHD patients. Herein, we highlight two novel cases of bilateral multiple renal and pelvic cysts, in two females with genetically proven BHD syndrome, doubting a potential association with BHD syndrome.

The Incidental Renal Mass- Update on Characterization and Management

Renal masses are commonly encountered on cross-sectional imaging examinations performed for nonrenal indications. Although most can be dismissed as benign cysts, a subset will be either indeterminate or suspicious; in many cases, imaging cannot be used to reliably differentiate between benign and malignant masses. On-going research in defining characteristics of common renal masses on advanced imaging shows promise in offering solutions to this issue. A recent update of the Bosniak classification (used to categorize cystic renal masses) was proposed with the goals of decreasing imaging follow-up in likely benign cystic masses, and therefore avoiding unnecessary surgical resection of such masses.

Sustained volume decreases in simple renal cysts after sclerotherapy using NBCA with or without hydrodissection

The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of sclerotherapy using NBCA (Histoacryl Blue®; B. Braun, Melgungen, Germany), with or without hydrodissection, for the treatment of simple renal cysts. Materials and Methods: Patients who presented to an interventional radiology clinic for the diagnosis of symptomatic renal cysts which had previously been identified at an outpatient clinic were selected for inclusion in this study. A total of 28 patients were randomly divided into 2 groups, based on whether or not they underwent hydrodissection along with ultrasound-guided NBCA-based sclerotherapy. Sonographs were performed at 0, 7, and 180 days post-procedure to record the residual volume of the renal cysts and to determine the efficacy of the procedure. Results: A total of 32 cysts in 28 patients were treated with sclerotherapy, 18 (64%) females and 10 (36%) males. The average age of the patients was 61.8 years (range: 33-89 years). All patients reported an improvement in symptoms associated with the existing renal cysts at 7 and 180 days post-procedure, and at 7 days post-procedure a statistically significant reduction in cyst volume was observed (all patients: 96.8%; group A: 96%; group B: 97.6%). The reduced cyst volume was still observed 180 days post-procedure (all patients: 98.6%; group A: 98.2%; group B: 98.9%). There was no significant difference between the two treatment groups. Conclusion: There is a significant and persistent reduction in the volume of renal cysts, in addition to an improvement of the associated symptoms, after treatment with NBCA-based sclerotherapy, with or without hydrodissection.

The Relationship Between Simple Renal Cysts and Renal Function in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

Introduction: Simple renal cysts (SRCs) are the most common acquired cystic kidney disease, but the relationship between SRCs and renal function has not been clarified in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the clinical features of renal cysts and ultrasound data of the kidney in 4,304 patients with T2DM.

Results: The prevalence of SRCs in patients with T2DM was 21.1%. Compared to patients with no SRCs, patients with SRCs had worse renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate: 108.65 ± 40.93 vs. 92.38 ± 42.1 ml/min/1.73 m², p < 0.05). After adjusting the confounders, SRC was related to estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with T2DM [odds ratio = 1.49, 95% confidence interval (1.24, 1.79), p < 0.01]. Age, gout, proteinuria, cerebrovascular disease (CVD), and increased serum phosphorus levels were associated with SRCs in patients with T2DM.

Conclusion: SRCs are associated with worse renal function in patients with T2DM. More attention should be paid to gout, proteinuria, CVD, serum phosphorus levels, and renal function in T2DM patients with SRCs.

Reporting on Renal Masses, Recommendations for Terminology, and Sample Templates

Given the incidence of small renal masses, from benign cysts to malignancy, most radiologists encounter these lesions multiple times during their career. Radiologists have an opportunity to provide critical data that will further refine the understanding of the impact of these masses on patient outcomes. This article summarizes and describes recent updates and understanding of the critical observations and descriptors of renal masses. The templates and glossary of terms presented in this review article facilitate the radiology reporting of such data elements, giving radiologists the opportunity to improve diagnostic accuracy and influence management of small renal masses.

Prevalence and risk factors of perirenal hyperintensities on T2-weighted MR imaging

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence and severity of perirenal hyperintensities (PRHs) on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and their risk factors in the general population.

METHODS

1752 participants (910 women, 842 men, median age: 52 years) of the Study of Health in Pomerania were included. A visual classification system was established to assess the severity of PRHs (stage 0: no PRHs visible to stage 3: extensive PRHs visible). The MRI-derived thickness of the perirenal and posterior pararenal space and additional risk factors were determined and associated with PRH stages.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of PRHs was 40.7% and was higher in men than in women. PRHs were more common around the left compared to the right kidney (p < 0.001). On both sides, the presence of PRHs was associated with age (p < 0.001). Multivariable-adjusted regression models revealed male sex (OR = 13.2, 95%CI 9.7; 17.9, p < 0.001), older age (OR = 1.1, 95%CI 1.1; 1.1, p < 0.001), higher body mass index (BMI; OR = 1.1, 95%CI 1.0; 1.1, p < 0.001), current smoking status (OR = 1.9, 95%CI 1.4; 2.6, p < 0.001), and greater thickness of the posterior pararenal space (OR = 1.2, 95%CI 1.2; 1.2, p < 0.001) as independent significant risk factors of left-sided PRHs. The same risk factors were confirmed for right PRHs. Glomerular filtration rate was not associated with PRHs on either sides (OR = 1.00, 95%CI 1.0;1.0, p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

PRHs are common in the general population, with a higher prevalence in men, elderly individuals, and around the left kidney. Furthermore, BMI, posterior pararenal space thickness, and current smoking, but not renal function itself, are associated with the presence of PRHs.

Long-term outcome after flexible ureteroscopy with holmium laser for simultaneous treatment of a single renal cyst and ipsilateral renal stones

Objective

To assess the long-term outcome of simultaneous treatment of a single renal cyst and ipsilateral stones with transurethral flexible ureteroscopy (FURS) lithotripsy and internal cyst drainage.

Methods

Patients who underwent simultaneous treatment with FURS lithotripsy and internal cyst drainage in our institution between July 2014 and September 2017 were enrolled. The cyst wall was identified endoscopically and a 1–3-cm window was created in the wall using a holmium laser. The proximal end of a double-J stent was placed in the cystic cavity to facilitate internal drainage.

Results

Thirteen patients underwent simultaneous treatment. No intraoperative complications with Clavien grading score >2 were noted in any patients. Mean stone burden and cyst diameter were 1.6 (range: 0.9–2.5) cm and 5.8 (range: 3.0–7.1) cm, respectively. Stone-free rates after single and complementary procedures were 84.6% and 92.3%, respectively. During the mean 33.1-month follow-up period (range: 17–54 months), seven patients (53.8%) achieved full resolution of renal cysts, five patients (38.5%) maintained >50% size reduction, and one patient (7.6%) experienced recurrence at 18 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

FURS with a holmium laser may constitute a safe and effective alternative procedure for simultaneous treatment of a single renal cyst and ipsilateral stones.