ABSTRACT
Computed tomography (CT) urography is the investigation of choice for painless haematuria. CT urography is a term used to describe a contrast-enhanced CT technique designed to provide excellent delineation of the renal collecting systems, ureters and bladder, as well as cross-sectional images of the kidneys and adjacent structures. Contrast-enhanced CT is used for further characterization of a solid lesion or complex cyst found on ultrasound (US). CT is more accurate than US for characterization of internal contents of a mass, in particular to show areas of fat confirming the diagnosis of Angiomyolipoma. The most common CT appearance of renal cell carcinoma is a heterogeneous soft tissue mass that enhances with intravenous contrast material. In some centres, magnetic resonance imaging is used in preference to CT for the investigation and characterization of renal masses. Magnetic resonance imaging generally gives similar information to CT in the detection, classification and staging of renal cysts and tumours.
