Simple Cortical Cyst : Introduction

Introduction: Simple cortical cyst is the most common cystic lesion of the kidney. It is rarely seen before the age of 40 years and its prevalence increases with advancing age. It is found in up to 20% of individuals over the age of 50 years. This autopsy photo shows an incidentally found 3.0 cm unilocular cyst in one of the kidneys. The kidneys are symmetrically reduced in size and have a granular subscapular surface due to scarring from long-standing hypertension (benign nephrosclerosis).