Objective: To explore the computed tomography (CT) features and pathological correlations of primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) of the kidney.
Methods: The CT features of 5 cases of pathologically confirmed PNETs were retrospectively reviewed along with a literature review to analyze the CT features and pathological correlations.
Results: The age range was 19-78 years. CT image showed solitary mass of heterogeneous density with ill-defined margins. One case had multifocal necrosis. Among 3 cases of cystic changes, there were mural nodule (n = 2) and patchy calcification (n = 1). Four cases showed invasive growth into renal cortex and pelvis with cortical interruption (n = 3) and destruction of renal capsule and invasion into perirenal fat space (n = 1). The tumors were confined to kidney contour with enlarged kidney (n = 3). All 5 cases showed slight heterogenous enhancement in cortico-medullary phase with persistent moderate enhancement (n = 4) and persistent mild enhancement (n = 1) in nephrographic phase.
Conclusion: Renal PNET is common in young patients with a high degree of malignancy. CT features include large mass with heterogenous density and poor-defined border confined within renal contour. Necrosis and cystic changes occur commonly with invasive growth. Persistent enhancement is found during nephrographic phase. A definite diagnosis is dependent upon pathological and immunohistochemical examinations.