What is the term for a common variant of cortical thickening on the lateral aspect of the left kidney?

The term that describes a common variant of cortical thickening on the lateral aspect of the left kidney is known as a dromedary hump. This anatomical variant is often recognized as a normal anatomical feature rather than a pathological condition. The dromedary hump typically appears as a bulge or convexity along the lateral border of the left kidney and is thought to occur due to the anatomical proximity of the left kidney to the spleen.

Understanding the significance of this feature is essential for practitioners because it avoids misdiagnosing the anatomical variant as a pathological mass, such as a tumor. This differentiation is crucial in ultrasound imaging to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate patient management.

In contrast, renal stones are hard deposits formed from minerals and salts that can cause obstruction and pain but do not typically present as cortical thickening. Medullary sponge kidney is a congenital disorder characterized by cystic dilatation of the collecting tubules in one or more renal pyramids, but this condition does not specifically describe the lateral cortical thickening. Renal cysts are fluid-filled sacs within the kidney that may also alter the kidney's appearance but are different from the characteristic dromedary hump.