Juxtaglomerular cell tumor, causing fetal demise

Int Urol Nephrol. 2011 Jun;43(2):365-70. doi: 10.1007/s11255-010-9782-z. Epub 2010 Jun 17.

Abstract

Aims: This case report describes juxtaglomerular cell tumor-a rare renin-producing tumor of the kidney, complicating pregnancy.

Clinical case: A previously healthy 24-year-old primigravid woman developed hypertension in the 20th week of pregnancy, leading to a miscarriage in the 28th week. However, hypertension continued after the miscarriage. A more complete examination revealed a solid tumor in the lower pole of the right kidney. The patient underwent a partial right nephrectomy. A histological examination and electron microscopy confirmed the diagnosis of JGCT. The patient's blood pressure was normalized within 2 weeks.

Conclusions: JGCT can lead to miscarriage if undiscovered during pregnancy. A kidney ultrasound should be performed on pregnant women with newly detected hypertension. No staining in early phase of contrast CT is the feature that differentiates JGCT from renal cell carcinoma. These tumors are benign, with only one reported exception, and nephron-sparing surgery is preferable.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Spontaneous / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / complications*
  • Hypertension / diagnosis
  • Juxtaglomerular Apparatus
  • Kidney Neoplasms / complications*
  • Kidney Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular* / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic* / diagnosis
  • Young Adult