flank mass
Last reviewed 01/2018
Loin masses are usually the result of some enlargement of the kidneys or their collecting systems, unilaterally or bilaterally. Unusually, massive enlargement of the adrenals can cause a loin mass.
Causes of loins masses include:
- renal tumours
- hydronephrosis
- adult polycystic disease
- adrenal tumours
- renal vein thrombosis
- acute tubular necrosis
Note that a massively enlarged liver or spleen, or a mass arising from the gastrointestinal system may cause an apparent mass in the loin.