What is the diagnosis and management of a complex cystic mass, 7.9 centimeters (cm) in size, involving the lower pole of the left kidney?

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Differential Diagnosis for Complex Cystic Mass Involving Lower Pole of Left Kidney

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis
    • Simple renal cyst with hemorrhage or infection: This is a common condition that can present as a complex cystic mass due to the presence of blood or infectious material within the cyst.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses
    • Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with cystic degeneration: RCC is a primary malignancy of the kidney that can present as a complex cystic mass, especially if there is necrosis or cystic change within the tumor.
    • Multilocular cystic renal cell carcinoma: A subtype of RCC that is characterized by a multicystic appearance, which can be difficult to distinguish from a benign cystic lesion.
    • Cystic nephroma: A rare benign tumor that can present as a complex cystic mass, often with a mix of solid and cystic components.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses
    • Angiomyolipoma (AML) with hemorrhage: AML is a benign tumor that can present as a complex cystic mass if there is hemorrhage within the tumor. It is important to consider this diagnosis due to the risk of rupture and bleeding.
    • Renal abscess: A collection of pus within the kidney that can present as a complex cystic mass, often with signs of infection such as fever and flank pain.
    • Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis: A rare inflammatory condition that can present as a complex cystic mass, often with signs of infection and kidney dysfunction.
  • Rare Diagnoses
    • Cystic hamartoma of the renal pelvis: A rare benign tumor that can present as a complex cystic mass, often with a mix of solid and cystic components.
    • Primary renal lymphoma: A rare malignancy that can present as a complex cystic mass, often with systemic signs of lymphoma such as weight loss and fatigue.
    • Metastatic disease to the kidney: A rare condition where cancer from another site metastasizes to the kidney, presenting as a complex cystic mass.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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