Contrast-enhanced ultrasound findings of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder in a transplanted kidney: A case report and literature review

J Radiol Case Rep. 2015 Oct 31;9(10):26-34. doi: 10.3941/jrcr.v9i10.2602. eCollection 2015 Oct.

Abstract

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder occurs in approximately one percent of kidney transplant recipients. We evaluated a seventy-seven year-old man with a solid mass in his transplant kidney. On contrast enhanced ultrasound, the mass enhanced but remained persistently hypovascular throughout exam. The enhancement pattern of the mass differed from that typical of clear cell renal cell carcinoma, the main differential diagnosis. Final pathology after partial nephrectomy confirmed post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder. This is the first report of contrast enhanced ultrasound findings in a renal mass diagnosed as post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder. Contrast enhanced ultrasound has a promising role in imaging of renal masses, particularly relevant in transplant patients due to the lack of nephrotoxicity.

Keywords: Contrast enhanced ultrasound; lymphoma; post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder; renal transplant.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / diagnosis
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Kidney Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / etiology*
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / surgery
  • Male
  • Nephrectomy
  • Ultrasonography