Preoperative diagnosis of renal oncocytoma and treatment possibilities

We report 2 cases of renal oncocytoma and review the literature. A number of radiological, cytological and ultrastructural differential features of oncocytoma that are known today make preoperative diagnosis of this tumour possible. Analysis of the reported cases allows to conclude that oncocytomas are of universally benign character with a very good prognosis. Metastases have not been documented. Thus we suggest that many patients with oncocytoma could be spared the operation of nephrectomy. Partial kidney resection or heminephrectomy are to be preferred with solitary oncocytomas of a moderate size.