Key points about angiomyolipoma
- Angiomyolipomas are noncancerous kidney tumors made of fat, muscle, and blood vessels
- Most don’t cause symptoms and are found by accident
- They’re more common in women and people with tuberous sclerosis
- Large tumors can bleed or cause pain
- Treatment depends on the size and symptoms
Angiomyolipoma causes
These kidney tumors may be caused by:
- Tuberous sclerosis, a rare genetic disorder
- Hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy)
- Unknown reasons (sporadic cases)
- Angiomyolipoma risk factors
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have tuberous sclerosis
- Are female
- Are between ages 30 and 50
- Have had angiomyolipomas before
Angiomyolipoma symptoms
While many tumors cause no symptoms, larger ones may lead to:
- Pain in the side, back, or abdomen
- Blood in the urine
- A noticeable lump near the kidney
- Dizziness or weakness if bleeding occurs
Angiomyolipoma diagnosis
To diagnose this condition, doctors may use:
- Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to view the tumor
- Urine tests for blood
- Blood tests to check kidney health
- Follow-up scans to track tumor growth over time
Angiomyolipoma treatment
Treatment depends on the tumor’s size and whether symptoms are present:
-
<li">Monitoring small tumors with regular imaging
- Medications (like mTOR inhibitors) for tumors linked to tuberous sclerosis
- Surgery or embolization (cutting off blood flow) if the tumor is large or bleeding
- Kidney-sparing procedures when possible </li">
When to seek care
Talk to your doctor if you:
- Have side or back pain that doesn’t go away
- Notice blood in your urine
- Feel a lump near your waist or lower back
- Have tuberous sclerosis and haven’t had your kidneys checked