Presentation
History of a single episode of urolithiasis. Currently asymptomatic. Evaluation as per request of urology.
Patient Data
Age: 50 years
Gender: Female
From the case:
Renal tubular ectasia
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scout - precontrast
There are no calcifications in either kidney. A recent CT of the abdomen and pelvis (within a month) did not show any renal stones.
On IVP, there is exaggerated "strandy" enhancement of the medullary pyramids with a "paintbrush" appearance. No filling defect is seen in either kidney.
Case Discussion
The appearance is compatible with renal tubular ectasia. This "paintbrush" appearance overlaps with medullary sponge kidney, and the difference between the two is really one of degree and symptoms.
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renal tubular ectasia
- less pronounced than medullary sponge kidney
- asymptomatic, incidental
- no calcifications
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medullary sponge kidney
- more pronounced than renal tubular ectasia
- predisposes to medullary nephrocalcinosis and renal stone formation
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