Kidney masses are most commonly found by accident (incidentally) on imaging tests (Ultrasounds, CT scans, MRIs) done for other reasons. Although symptoms are rarely present, symptoms may include a palpable lump in the abdomen, bloody urine, or flank pain.
Urology Consultation
The team at Fore River Urology understands that a newly identified kidney mass can be very frightening for patients and their families. Whether your kidney mass was discovered in the emergency room, on imaging ordered by your primary doctor, or by other means, the critical first step is a consultation with an experienced urologist. Our experienced physicians will promptly get you the information, testing, and treatment you need.
Do not get a biopsy or any treatment prior to consulting with a specialist – you may not need any treatment or intervention at all!
It is key to know that not all kidney masses are cancer. Kidney ‘masses’ could be completely benign cysts, benign masses, or kidney cancer. Not all kidney masses are safe to biopsy, or are necessary to biopsy.
Diagnostic tests:
You and your urologist will discuss the imaging findings and then determine if additional testing is warranted. At times, additional looks at the mass may require a special CT scan or MRI depending on the individual case. Often blood work will be needed if not already obtained.
Kidney mass biopsy:
Renal mass biopsy (RMB) is a minor interventional procedure for evaluating small renal masses (SRMs) and distinguishing benign from malignant (cancerous) masses, particularly in patients with other health problems where surveillance or nonsurgical management is considered. The primary advantages of RMB include its ability to guide treatment decisions, avoid unnecessary surgery for benign tumors, and facilitate personalized care. However, limitations include a non-diagnostic rate of approximately 10-20%, often due to insufficient sampling or tumor heterogeneity. Indications for RMB include indeterminate renal masses, suspected metastatic disease, and cases where histologic confirmation may change management. Risks of RMB are generally low but include bleeding, infection, tumor seeding (rare), and potential for false-negative results. Despite these limitations, when performed in appropriate patients and by experienced providers, RMB is a safe and useful diagnostic tool in the management of renal masses.
Management Options:
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Active surveillance (observation)
- Often reserved for <2cm masses
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Ablation
- Less Invasive
- Lower Cure Rate
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Minimally invasive surgery:
- Higher cure rates
- Slightly higher risk
Additional Patient Resources:
Kidney-Masses-and-Localized-Kidney-Tumors-Patient-Guide
For an appointment, please call 207-518-6600.
More information for patients about kidney cancer can be found through the American Cancer Society and the Kidney Cancer Association.
