Imaging of the kidney

Question 1

Use of KUB X-ray

Answer 1

Used to detect calcification in the kidney e.g. stones.

Shows relative position and size of kidneys

Shows secondary bony deposits assocaited with cancer e.g. prostate

Question 6

DDx of small kidneys on imaging

Answer 6

Small kidneys due to chronic disease

Unilateral: renal artery stenosis, infarction, chronic obstruction

Bilateral: Chronic glomerulonephritis, atherosclerosis

Question 7

DDx of large kidneys on imaging

Answer 7

Unilateral: obstruction, hydronephrosis, acute pyelonephritis

Bilateral: due to systemic disease e.g. acute glomerulonephritis, goodpastures, SLE

Question 8

Use of renal USS

Answer 8

Assess size, shape and position of the kidney

Used to distinguish between solid masses and renal cysts (fluid is dark).

Assess renal pelvis and calyces in urinary obstruction.

Doppler ultrasound can be used for renal vein thrombosis

Transrectal ultrasound used to assess prostate size.

Question 9

Use of CT renal patients

Answer 9

Detect renal and retroperitoneal masses. Good for locating and staging tumours.

Detection of renal calculi.