Angiomyolipoma

Also known as: kidney angiomyolipoma, renal angiomyolipoma, AML

What is an angiomyolipoma?

An angiomyolipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that forms in one of the kidneys. It’s often referred to as renal angiomyolipoma. In some cases, it doesn’t cause any symptoms, but it may grow large enough to disrupt your daily life.

What causes angiomyolipoma?

The exact cause of angiomyolipoma is not known, but genetic factors might play a role. The condition is most common in women ages 40 to 60.

What are the symptoms of angiomyolipoma?

Most people with an angiomyolipoma do not experience symptoms. If it grows too large, it can cause symptoms such as fever, anemia, pain, nausea and vomiting or high blood pressure.

How can angiomyolipoma affect children?

Angiomyolipoma is rare in children. When it does occur, it’s typically due to the presence of a rare genetic disorder known as tuberous sclerosis.

What are angiomyolipoma treatments?

Many cases of angiomyolipoma do not require treatment. If the tumor has grown too large and is causing symptoms, then treatment may be necessary. This process can involve destroying the tumor with radiofrequency waves in a process known as ablation or cutting off the blood flow and shrinking the tumor with arterial embolization. In other cases, a surgery to remove the tumor known as nephrectomy may be required.

Reviewed by: Maggie Fader, MD

This page was last updated on: November 03, 2023 04:04 PM