Renal and Suprarenal Pseudotumors Caused by Variations of the Spleen

Abstract

Variations in the contour and position of the spleen simulated renal or suprarenal masses on routine radiographic studies in 5 patients. Angiography was able to determine the true etiology of the apparent masses in 4 (assisted by isotopes in one case). Localized flattening of the upper pole of the kidney, usually thought to indicate adrenal disease, was seen in 3. Splenic variations included a lumpy spleen, a transverse spleen with a prominent superior pole, a rotated and ptotic spleen, a depressed spleen, and an accessory spleen.