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Staging and imaging-based prognostication in renal cell carcinoma: current guidelines and practical considerations

delete2026-03-01
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PRE
AI
Y
Yuki Arita *
B
Becker, Anton
L
Leithner, Doris
P
Park, Kye Jin
P
Park, Sung Yoon
S
Samuel J. Withey
H
Hiromi Edo
F
Fujiwara, Motohiro
S
Sungmin Woo
DOI:10.1007/s00261-026-05432-1delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Imaging-based staging is a key component of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) management, yet anatomic labels alone do not fully capture tumor biology. This review highlights key aspects of RCC staging using computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), compares their use across major guidelines, and explores how integrating imaging-based prognostic markers can refine preoperative risk assessment. We summarize the pragmatic use of multiphase CT and MRI for T-staging, highlight pitfalls, and outline indications for chest and ancillary imaging based on American Urological Association, European Association of Urology, and National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines. We also discuss imaging-based prognostic biomarkers, including central non-enhancement and enhancement heterogeneity, diffusion metrics, and radiomic signatures, and we describe how they correlate with outcomes such as tumor grade, stage, molecular features, and survival. In addition, we dive into future directions, focusing on the potential integration of advanced technologies (e.g., photon counting CT, 89Zr-Girentuximab positron emission tomography/CT), integration with liquid biopsy, and development of standardized reporting systems focusing on cancer likelihood and aggressiveness (e.g., Kidney Imaging Reporting and Data System). By bridging staging descriptors with prognostic phenotypes, we aim to standardize reports, better inform management, and improve decision-making for patients with RCC.
Keywords:
Renal cell carcinoma
Computed tomography
Magnetic resonance imaging
Risk assessment

Journal

A
Abdominal Radiology
IF:
2.2
Papers:
282
Citations:
7.7K

Organization

N
nyu langone medical center
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1.1W
Papers: 6.4K
Citations: 11
U
university of california san francisco
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university of washington seattle
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I
icahn school of medicine at mount sinai
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3.3K
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University of California System cover
University of California System
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37.2W
Papers: 33.6W
Citations: 6.6K
U
university of washington
Scholars:
7.9K
Papers: 3.7K
Citations: 2
Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust cover
Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
Scholars:
1.1W
Papers: 7.1K
Citations: 4.3K
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