kidney stones/kidney cancer

  Please respond to message: "Kidney Cancer" - Lynda (posted)  11/30/98.  Some additions to that message are: Age- 56yr. Last    US result: findings consistent with a mass somewhat hypoechoic(same size)upper pole R kidney unchanged. Also, his first kidney stone8/94 was in the R. kidney,.2x.2x.2 which they tried to let him pass for a few weeks(never did)- and he developed a bad kidney infection(Klebsiella Oxytoca,Enterococcus(strep)faecal.  Then the stent inserted post cystoscopy to remove the stone didn't have an external string for removal(think it broke off? during insertion) so stent was removed 10-12 days later via cystoscopy.  Could any of this be related to the R Kidney lesion (i.e.,infection scarring, unanchored stent migrating up to kidney)?
----------------------------
Dear Lynda
Thanks for your questions.  
A hypoechoic mass is often a cyst.  This  can be further described by a CT scan if it appears abnormal on ultrasound to help rule out a malignant mass.  40% of people over the age of 50 have simple acquired renal cyst and are benign.  Cyst are not caused by infection, stents  or scarring.  They are believed to be derived from dilation of an obstructed collecting duct.  
  More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling  (1 800 653 6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians