Renal Oncocytoma: Preoperative Diagnosis Using Technetium 99m Sestamibi Imaging

Objectives: To determine if 99mTc-sestamibi (technetium 99m-methoxyisobutylisonitrile) can be used preoperatively to differentiate renal oncocytomas from other renal masses.

Methods: We performed 99mTc-sestamibi scans on 6 patients with various renal masses, using a standard technique. The diagnosis in each patient was determined either by radiologic methods.

Results: There was significantly increased uptake in the patient with the renal oncocytoma, whereas the other lesions had decreased uptake in comparison to normal kidney. This was determined visually and by mean pixel analysis.

Conclusions: Technetium 99m sestamibi scanning appears to have a potential role in the nonoperative diagnosis of renal oncocytomas, in combination with pathologic fine-needle biopsy confirmation. More definitive pathologic experience is required before recommending standard use.