Juxtaglomerular cell tumor

Juxtaglomerular cell tumor (JCT, JGCT, also reninoma) is a rare kidney cancer that typically secretes renin. It involves the juxtaglomerular cells. It often causes hypertension, in adults and children, although among causes of hypertension it is rare. Its malignant potential is uncertain.

History
Juxtaglomerular cell tumor was first described in 1967. Since then, under 100 case reports have been published. Karyotyping of a small number of these tumors revealed a common loss of chromosomes 9 and 11.

Pathology
By hypersecretion of renin, JCT causes hypertension and hypokalemia. Both of these conditions may be corrected by surgical removal of the tumor.

Diagnosis
Hypertension combined with evidence of a kidney tumor via imaging or gross examination suggest a JCT. Presence of renin granules in pathology specimens differentiates this tumor from renal hemangiopericytoma and other renal tumors.

Prognosis
JCT often is described as benign, however one case of metastasis has been reported, so its malignant potential is uncertain. In most cases the tumor is encapsulated.