What does this report mean???

My mom is 80. She had a recent CT scan in connection with her heart doctor checking for calcification in artery. BUT...the CT scan was of the abdomen and pelvis also...and showed  the following:
"Abnormal mixed density renal mass without calcification measuring 1.9 x 2.4 cm in the posterior, inferior aspect of the right kidney. Primary concern would be that this reflects an early hypernephroma, oncocytoma or other solid lesion"
She has no symptoms of kidney or bladder problems. Please give me the possibilities....Im wondering, could it be a cyst??...and what could be if it is NOT a cancer. Im worried for her.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

A hypernephroma is the most common form of kidney cancer which occurs when the cells lining the renal tubule undergo cancerous changes.

An oncocytoma is the most common benign solid renal tumor.

A kidney cyst would be another type of benign kidney lesion.

If there is strong clinical suspicion that the kidney mass is cancerous (malignant), surgical removal of the kidney will be considered. If it is not clear, a biopsy must be performed. During a biopsy procedure a small tissue sample is removed from the mass and examined to determine whether it is benign or malignant.

I would suggest a referral to a urologist for further evaluation.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.