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Renal Angiomyolipoma

Renal Angiomyolipoma

Renal angiomyolipoma (AML) is a noncancerous (benign) tumor that forms in the kidney. It’s the most common type of benign kidney tumor, but it’s still relatively rare, affecting about 0.2% to 0.6% of the population.

What is it made of?

An AML is a unique tumor because it’s composed of three different types of tissue:

  • Fat: This is often the most prominent component, giving AMLs their characteristic appearance on imaging tests.
  • Muscle: Smooth muscle cells are also present within the tumor.
  • Blood vessels: These wind throughout the tumor, supplying it with nutrients.

Symptoms

Many people with AML have no symptoms at all. The tumors are often discovered incidentally during imaging tests performed for other reasons. However, if the tumor grows large, it can cause some problems, including:

  • Flank pain (pain in the side of the abdomen or back, near the kidneys)
  • Blood in the urine (hematuria)
  • A palpable mass in the abdomen (rare)
  • In rare cases, a large AML can rupture and bleed significantly, which can be life-threatening.

 

Causes

There are two main situations where AML can occur:

  • Sporadic AML: This is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases. The exact cause of sporadic AML is unknown.
  • AML associated with genetic conditions: In about 20% of cases, AML is linked to a genetic condition, most commonly tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). TSC is a rare genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow in many parts of the body, including the kidneys.

 

Diagnosis

Imaging tests are the mainstay of diagnosing AML. These tests can help visualize the tumor and determine its size, location, and characteristics. Common imaging tests used for AML diagnosis include:

  • Ultrasound
  • CT scan
  • MRI scan

 

Treatment

In most cases, no treatment is necessary for AML. Doctors typically recommend active surveillance, which involves monitoring the tumor with periodic imaging tests to watch for any signs of growth.

However, treatment may be considered in some situations, such as:

  • If the tumor is large and there’s a significant risk of bleeding.
  • If the tumor is causing symptoms, such as pain or blood in the urine.
  • In patients with TSC, where managing AML might be part of their overall treatment plan.

Treatment options for AML include: