Renal Oncocytoma: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature

Introduction: Renal oncocytomas are benign tumours arising from the intercalated cells of the collecting ducts and account for 3% to 7% of primary renal tumours. It was first described by Zippel in 1942. Oncocytomas are mostly asymptomatic and often discovered incidentally. They are often diagnosed postoperatively due to clinical and radiographic challenges in differentiating them from renal cell carcinoma.

Presentation of Case: The present study reports two cases of renal oncocytoma in a 61‑year‑old man who was asymptomatic and a 73‑year‑old woman who was symptomatic. Relevant clinical and imaging data on the two patients were reviewed. Both patients underwent nephrectomy via flank incisions.

Discussion: The typical morphologic features of oncocytoma were observed on histological examination of the excised kidney speci­mens. The postoperative course of each patient was uneventful and they were discharged 14 and 6-days post‑surgery, respec­tively. In addition, the present study reviews the literature regarding the clinical, radiological and pathological characteristics of renal oncocytoma.

Conclusion: Renal oncocytoma though is benign and has an excellent prognosis, the preoperative diagnostic challenges invariable warranted radical nephrectomy.