What Does "walled Off Cystic Lesion On A Kidney" Mean?

Posted on Mon, 3 Nov 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 3 Nov 2014 Answered on

Thu, 20 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Can you explain in lay terms what a walled off cystic lesion on a kidney actually is. My husband just found out, through an MRI for another issue that he has one. It showed up about 11 or 12 years ago and has never been an issue. There is no blood in his urine and he has no pain or symptoms. He will be seeing a urologist, but just getting this news is unsettling. So if you could give an explanation of what it generally is, I would appreciate that very much. Thank you for your consideration and time.
I. Dahlsten

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
benign cyst

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for contacting HCM with your health care concerns

You are concerned about a finding on an MRI which show a walled off cyst in his kidney. This is basically a hole in his kidney similar to the bubbles or holes seen in Swiss cheese. This is walled off meaning that is completely enclosed and not extending into other areas of the kidney. These cysts are frequently found and have no clinical concerns. We do nothing about these cysts and people live with them for years without any problems.

I can reassure you that your husband has nothing to be worried about.

Hope this answers your question. Please contact us again with your medical concerns and questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D