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Advanced Technical IVT

oncocytoma

Pronunciation: on-ko-sy-TOH-mah

Benign renal tumor characterized by abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm that can be challenging to distinguish from renal cell carcinoma on imaging.

Full Definition

Renal oncocytoma is a benign kidney tumor that accounts for approximately 3-7% of all renal neoplasms. These tumors are composed of cells with abundant eosinophilic (pink) cytoplasm and numerous mitochondria. Oncocytomas can be difficult to distinguish from chromophobe renal cell carcinoma and other renal masses based on imaging alone, often requiring tissue sampling or surgical excision for definitive diagnosis. They typically present as well-circumscribed, homogeneous masses on CT or MRI. While benign, oncocytomas may grow large and can occasionally be associated with other renal tumors, making accurate diagnosis crucial for appropriate management decisions.

Usage

Usage note: Note the single 'c' in oncocytoma; often misspelled as 'onccocytoma'.

In Context

  • "Pathological examination confirmed oncocytoma rather than the suspected renal cell carcinoma." — Pathology report
  • "The differential diagnosis included oncocytoma versus chromophobe renal cell carcinoma." — Radiology report

Also known as

renal oncocytoma

Contrasted with

malignant renal tumor

Don't confuse with

chromophobe renal cell carcinoma eosinophilic variant RCC

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