MRI for renal lesions in pregnancy?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is acceptable imaging to be performed in women with renal lesions incidentally detected during routine antenatal ultrasonography, according to a study in the September issue of Urology.

Lydia G. Johns Putra, MD, of the University of Melbourne in Heidelberg, Australia, and colleagues studied seven pregnant women (mean age, 31.8 years) who presented with lesions detected on ultrasonography ranging in size from 4 to 14 cm.

The researchers found that MRI did not expose the developing fetus to radiation and allowed for more accurate staging and characterization of the lesions and development of a suitable management plan for the patient, obstetrician, and urologist.

Putra LG, Minor TX, Bolton DM, et al. Improved assessment of renal lesions in pregnancy with magnetic resonance imaging. Urology. 2009;74:535-539.