Renal Lymphoma : Diff. Diagnosis & Prognosis
Section Editor: Dharam M. Ramnani, MD
Virginia Urology, Richmond, VA, USA
Image Description
This photographs shows primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the kidney. There are multiple, fleshy, pink-tan nodules scattered throughout the kidney. The diagnosis was confirmed with the help of an immunohistochemical panel.
Differential Diagnosis: The differential diagnosis of renal lymphomas includes renal cell carcinoma, inflammatory lesions, soft tissue tumors and nephroblastoma (pediatric patients). Bilateral disease supports lymphoma over renal cell carcinoma. The correct diagnosis can be readily made with routine H&E stains and immunohistochemical markers.
Prognosis: Secondary renal lymphomas in the background of a systemic lymphoma present at advanced stages. Accordingly, the prognosis is generally poor. Bilateral disease is associated with worse outcome than unilateral involvement. Primary renal lymphomas have a slightly better prognosis and complete remission has been achieved with modern chemotherapeutic regimens in many cases.
Differential Diagnosis: The differential diagnosis of renal lymphomas includes renal cell carcinoma, inflammatory lesions, soft tissue tumors and nephroblastoma (pediatric patients). Bilateral disease supports lymphoma over renal cell carcinoma. The correct diagnosis can be readily made with routine H&E stains and immunohistochemical markers.
Prognosis: Secondary renal lymphomas in the background of a systemic lymphoma present at advanced stages. Accordingly, the prognosis is generally poor. Bilateral disease is associated with worse outcome than unilateral involvement. Primary renal lymphomas have a slightly better prognosis and complete remission has been achieved with modern chemotherapeutic regimens in many cases.