First Steps in Kidney, Adrenal Gland, and Urinary Bladder Ultrasonography

Abstract

Kidney, adrenal gland, and urinary bladder ultrasonography is often performed when patients complain of flank or suprapubic discomfort or abnormal urinalysis. Approaches to kidney, adrenal gland, and urinary bladder ultrasonography are not difficult. However, if we do not have enough knowledge of the scanning method or anatomy, we might not understand or correctly interpret the results. We must distinguish several normal kidney variants and also perform accurate Bosniak classification of cystic lesions. It is important to know the characteristics of angiomyolipoma and renal cell carcinoma for solid lesions. Finding normal adrenal glands can be very difficult. However, if we approach the adrenal gland using appropriate scanning methods and if the adrenal glands are enlarged, the possibility of detection is enhanced. Urinary bladder ultrasonography is not difficult if the bladder is full. It is important to understand the anatomy of the urinary bladder and the normal range of its capacity and physiology. Ultrasonography is useful in patients who have urologic symptoms.