A 60-year-old man presents to his urologist with complaints of blood in his urine. He has no significant pain but reports unexplained weight loss and fatigue over the past few months. The urologist suspects a renal tumor and orders imaging studies and lab tests.
Which of the following statements is true regarding renal adenocarcinomas?
A. Are of transitional cell origin.
B. Usually are associated with anemia.
C. Are difficult to diagnose.
D. Frequently are signaled by gross hematuria.
Answer:
The Correct Answer is: D. Frequently are signaled by gross hematuria
Explanation:
Frequently are signaled by gross hematuria (D):
– Renal adenocarcinomas, also known as renal cell carcinomas (RCC), frequently present with gross hematuria (visible blood in the urine). This is one of the classic triad of symptoms (along with flank pain and a palpable mass) that suggest RCC.
– Gross hematuria is a common early sign that prompts further investigation, leading to the diagnosis of RCC.
Explanation of Incorrect Options:
Are of transitional cell origin (A):
– Renal adenocarcinomas (renal cell carcinomas) are not of transitional cell origin. Transitional cell carcinomas arise from the transitional epithelium of the renal pelvis, ureter, or bladder. RCC originates from the renal tubular epithelium.
Usually are associated with anemia (B):
– While RCC can cause anemia, it is not a primary characteristic. Anemia in RCC patients can occur due to chronic disease or blood loss, but it is not a definitive diagnostic feature.
Are difficult to diagnose (C):
– Renal cell carcinomas are generally not difficult to diagnose. Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs are effective in identifying renal masses. Biopsy or surgical resection provides definitive diagnosis through histopathological examination.
In conclusion, renal adenocarcinomas frequently present with gross hematuria, making option D the correct answer.