Title

What to Do With Renal Cysts in Children?

Authors

Zhan Tao Peter Wang, Western University
Ernest Pang Chan, Western University
Nicolas Vanin Moreno, Western University
Guido Filler, Western UniversityFollow
Irene McAleer, University of California, Orange CA
Elias Wehbi, University of California, Orange CA
Kai-Wen Chuang, University of California, Orange CA
Antoine Khoury, University of California, Orange CA

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2020

Journal

Urology

Volume

140

First Page

138

Last Page

142

URL with Digital Object Identifier

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2020.03.001

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To explore the current practice patterns for the management of renal cysts internationally among pediatric urologists and nephrologists.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey composed of 21 questions and 4 clinical scenarios was distributed to pediatric urologists and nephrologists. Survey questions evaluated optimal imaging modality, management, and follow-up period. Interspecialty comparisons were made using chi-square analysis where appropriate.

RESULTS: A total of 183 respondents completed the survey (128 pediatric urologists, 37 pediatric nephrologists, and 19 other specialists). Most (57%) respondents agreed or strongly agreed with using an ultrasound based Bosniak classification to categorize renal cysts in children. The most commonly used follow-up intervals were 6-12 months for pediatric urologists and 1-2 years for pediatric nephrologists. Symptomatic mass effect (80.9%), gross hematuria (79.2%), or family history were the most common reasons for escalating surveillance. Pediatric nephrologists were more likely to increase follow-up with development of bilateral simple renal cysts (P = .008) or chronic kidney disease (P = .027) when compared to pediatric urologists. Laparoscopic marsupialization (39.4%) was the most common treatment for a simple renal cyst in a symptomatic child. Modified Bosniak III cysts had more heterogeneity in treatment based on the physician responses.

CONCLUSION: There is currently no consensus on the optimal protocol for the surveillance, imaging, or treatment of renal cysts in children. Most respondents agree that using an ultrasound-based Bosniak classification is reasonable. A call to action is therefore necessary for the development of registries and guidelines on the management of pediatric renal cysts and their associated malignancies.

Notes

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