Cross-Sectional Imaging of Renal Masses: Imaging Technique-Related Potential Pitfalls and Solutions

Introduction There has been an exponential increase in the incidental detection of renal masses that is commensurate with the increasing use of cross-sectional studies for evaluation of awide spectrum of patient symptoms. This increased detection of renal lesions necessitates better characterization to allowproper management. Ultrasound or ultrasonography (US), multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the modalities currently available for renal lesion detection, localization, and characterization. Standardized, multiphase CT and MRI protocols have been developed to allow reliable and reproducible lesion characterization. However, suboptimal image quality or nonstandard imaging techniquesmay create challenges in both the detection of masses as well as their accurate diagnosis. In this article, we present potential image acquisition–related pitfalls and possible solutions in the detection and assessment of renal masses in adult patients. Improved knowledge regarding such potential pitfalls may help radiologists to choose a different imaging modality or repeat the same study with technique modifications.