Ultrasound images of Normal kidneys
The cortex of the normal kidney is slightly hypoechoic when compared to the adjacent liver parenchyma, although this is age-dependent. In young people it may be of similar echogenicity and in the elderly it is not unusual for it to be compara-tively hyperechoic and thin. The medullary pyramids are seen as regularly spaced, echo-poor triangular structures between the cortex and the renal sinus. The tiny reflective structures often seen at the margins of the pyramids are echoes from the arcuate arteries which branch around the pyramids. The renal sinus containing the PCS is hyperechoic due to sinus fat which surrounds the vessels. The main artery and vein can be readily demonstrated at the renal hilum and should not be confused with a mild degree of PCS dilatation. Colour Doppler can help differentiate. The kidney develops in the fetus from a number of lobes, which fuse. Occasionally the traces of these lobes can be seen on the surface of the kidney, forming fetal lobulations (Fig. 7.2A); these may persist into adulthood.
Ultrasound images Coronal section through the RK demonstrating fetal lobulations (arrows). The pelvicalyceal system (PCS) is mildly distended due to a full bladder.
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