Pathology of tumours of the kidney and urinary tract

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the most common tumour types arising in the kidney and urinary tract, along with key aspects of pathologic assessment. The classification of kidney tumours has evolved significantly in recent years, driven by an improved understanding of molecular features. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma is the most common subtype, while non-clear cell renal cell carcinoma encompasses various subtypes and accurate classification has important therapeutic and prognostic implications.

Urothelial neoplasms can develop throughout the urinary tract but most commonly occur in the bladder. Certain subtypes of urothelial carcinoma are particularly important to recognize due to their aggressive clinical behaviour. Pathologic evaluation of kidney and urinary tract specimens is critical for determining tumor subtype, grade, stage, and other adverse histologic features that guide clinical management. Some of the challenges and limitations in pathologic assessment, as well as the importance of integrating pathologic and clinical data through multidisciplinary collaboration, are also discussed.