MDCT images from 90 patients with renal cysts > 1 cm in diameter (n= 122) were retrospectively analyzed for the presence and predictors of cyst pseudoenhancement.
Fifty-three percent of cysts 1-2 cm demonstrated pseudoenhancement (ranged from 11 to 35 HU). Cyst pseudoenhancement was more pronounced when imaged with 64-row CTs compared to 16-row CT. Cyst size, postcontrast renal parenchymal density, and number of scanner detector rows were independent predictors of pseudoenhancement.
Pseudoenhancement occurs most frequently in patients with renal cysts < 2 cm imaged with 64-detector-row MDCT.