Renal cell carcinoma in a child presenting with chronic gross hematuria: A rare case report with diagnostic and surgical insights

Abstract

Renal cell carcinoma is the most common adult renal malignancy but is rare in children, where Wilms tumor predominates. A 10-year-old boy presented with intermittent gross hematuria for two years, worsening with clot retention. Imaging revealed a right renal solid mass without metastasis (cT1bN0M0). After cystoscopic clot evacuation, open radical nephrectomy was performed. Histopathology confirmed RCC with lymphovascular invasion and negative margins (pT2aN0Mx). Because clinical and radiologic findings overlap with other pediatric renal tumors, definitive diagnosis relies on histopathology. Surgical resection is the primary treatment, as pediatric RCC responds poorly to chemo-and radiotherapy. Early-stage disease generally has favorable outcomes.