Diagnostic utility of CD10, CD3 and electron microscopy of renal cortical neoplasms with oncocytic features

No currently defined imaging techniques can reliably distinguish between oncocytoma and epithelial malignant lesions with oncocytic features in the kidney; therefore, patients must undergo resection or, in certain circumstances, biopsy to definitively establish diagnosis. Immunohistochemical staining for CD10 and CD3, evaluation of the staining pattern and intensity, and relevant morphologic appearance are helpful diagnostic tools in discriminating between renal cell carcinoma with oncocytic features and renal oncocytoma. Electron microscopy confirms different ultrastructural components of each neoplastic cell type and correlates with immunohistochemical findings. Accurate determination of the tumor origin would allow for the use of limited nephron sparing and laparoscopic surgical approaches to treat appropriately.