Renal cell carcinoma in pregnancy

Abstract

Renal adenocarcinoma makes up about 3% of all adult malignancies. Renal cell carcinoma is uncommon among women of child bearing age. Its management poses a challenge when there is an associated intrauterine pregnancy. We managed a 32-year-old multipara at a gestational age of 8 weeks who presented with a 2 year history of progressive right-sided abdominal swelling and mild loin pain. Abdominal ultrasonography finding was a renal tumor. She was subsequently worked up, and had right radical nephrectomy at a gestational age of 9 weeks. Histology of the mass was confirmed renal cell carcinoma. She had an eventful post-operative recovery. She was delivered of a live male child at term. Follow up has so far been uneventful. The management of renal cell carcinoma in pregnancy requires careful and thorough evaluation of the patient with prompt diagnosis and immediate treatment while taking into consideration the well being of the fetus.