Work

Horseshoe kidney with renal parenchymal squamous cell carcinoma: a case report and comprehensive literature review

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Horseshoe kidney (HSK) complicated with renal parenchymal squamous cell carcinoma (RSCC) is exceedingly rare and clinically insidious. Owing to the absence of pathognomonic symptoms or imaging hallmarks, the malignancy is frequently obscured by coexistent renal calculi, hydronephrosis, or infection, resulting in formidable diagnostic challenges, missed diagnoses, and consequently delayed treatment. We report a 60-year-old man who presented with HSK, left renal calculi, and hydronephrosis. After comprehensive preoperative evaluation, laparoscopic radical nephrectomy with isthmic transection was performed; histopathology confirmed a moderately to well-differentiated RSCC. A systematic literature review contextualizes this exceptional association. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for RSCC in HSK patients with long-standing calculi or anatomical anomalies who present with refractory flank pain. Early radical nephrectomy with regional lymphadenectomy remains the treatment of choice. Immunotherapy holds promise, yet its efficacy requires validation in prospective studies.

Source: Discover Oncology

DOI: 10.1007/s12672-025-03517-9

Authors: Peng Su, Ying Yang, Neng Zhang, Hong Zheng

Institutions: Zunyi Medical University, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical College

Language: English

Topic: Renal cell carcinoma treatment

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,690