Intra-renal splenosis mimicking a solid renal mass

Abstract

We present the case of a young woman found to have an exophytic solid renal mass who was referred to our institution for ablation of said mass versus partial nephrectomy. The patient had a history of splenectomy. Ultrasound demonstrated a homogeneous solid left renal mass, and the diagnosis of intra-renal splenosis was considered based on the patient's history. The diagnosis was confirmed using Tc-99 m heat-damaged red blood cell scintigraphy, obviating the need for an invasive procedure. The diagnosis of intra-renal splenosis should be considered for a solid renal mass with an appropriate history of prior splenic trauma or splenectomy.

An unusual pelvic mass: Contrast‐enhanced sonographic diagnosis of pelvic splenosis

“…Although splenosis is thought to be more common in men due to a higher incidence of abdominal trauma, pelvic splenosis has rarely been reported in male patients, possibly because pelvic imaging is performed less frequently than in females. Nuclear medicine scintigraphy with technetium‐99 labeled heat damaged red blood cells has previously been recommended as the diagnostic investigation of choice if the diagnosis is considered preoperatively . If a diagnosis of splenosis can be made with confidence as an incidental finding, then surgery is not usually recommended.…”