Computed tomography features and pathological correlations of primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the kidney

Abstract

To explore the computed tomography (CT) features and pathological correlations of primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) of the kidney. The CT features of 5 cases of pathologically confirmed PNETs were retrospectively reviewed along with a literature review to analyze the CT features and pathological correlations. The age range was 19-78 years. CT image showed solitary mass of heterogeneous density with ill-defined margins. One case had multifocal necrosis. Among 3 cases of cystic changes, there were mural nodule (n = 2) and patchy calcification (n = 1). Four cases showed invasive growth into renal cortex and pelvis with cortical interruption (n = 3) and destruction of renal capsule and invasion into perirenal fat space (n = 1). The tumors were confined to kidney contour with enlarged kidney (n = 3). All 5 cases showed slight heterogenous enhancement in cortico-medullary phase with persistent moderate enhancement (n = 4) and persistent mild enhancement (n = 1) in nephrographic phase. Renal PNET is common in young patients with a high degree of malignancy. CT features include large mass with heterogenous density and poor-defined border confined within renal contour. Necrosis and cystic changes occur commonly with invasive growth. Persistent enhancement is found during nephrographic phase. A definite diagnosis is dependent upon pathological and immunohistochemical examinations.