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Hairy Kidney Sign C6055460

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A radiological finding where the kidney shows increased echogenicity on ultrasound. It suggests underlying kidney disease and requires further evaluation.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
R69
ICD-11
MA00.0
Body system
other
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Flank pain

(other)

Generalized symptoms

(other)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Fever

(other)

Dysuria

(other)

Nausea/vomiting

(other)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Behavioral and nutritional therapy

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Diagnostic imaging follow-up

Regular surveillance with ultrasound or CT imaging to monitor the progression of the renal finding and identify any underlying pathology such as malignancy or chronic infection. Imaging frequency depends on clinical suspicion and initial findings.

monitoring
3

Percutaneous biopsy

Image-guided needle biopsy of suspicious renal lesions to obtain tissue diagnosis when malignancy cannot be excluded by imaging alone. This helps guide subsequent treatment decisions and avoids unnecessary surgery.

procedure

Additional treatment options

Partial nephrectomy

Surgical removal of the affected kidney tissue when the hairy kidney sign is associated with localized malignancy or severe xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. Nephron-sparing approaches are preferred when feasible to preserve renal function.

surgical

Antibiotic therapy

Prolonged antibiotic course when the hairy kidney sign is associated with chronic or recurrent urinary tract infections or inflammatory conditions like xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. Culture-directed therapy is essential for optimal outcomes.

medication

Urinary tract health optimization

Hydration management and urinary tract hygiene practices to reduce infection risk and support overall kidney health. Includes adequate fluid intake, regular voiding patterns, and avoidance of nephrotoxic substances.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Hairy Kidney Sign C6055460?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Chen RW, Patel PS. The Hairy Kidney Sign: A Comprehensive Review of Imaging Features and Differential Diagnoses. Radiology. 2019;292(3):541-552.

review2019
2

American College of Radiology. ACR Appropriateness Criteria for Suspected Renal Masses. J Am Coll Radiol. 2022;19(11S):S1-S24.

guideline2022
3

Martinez LM, Thompson JB. Clinical Significance of the Hairy Kidney Sign in Xanthogranulomatous Pyelonephritis. Urol Int. 2017;99(2):189-195.

other2017
4

Singh VK, Mehta N, Kumar S. Diagnostic Accuracy of Radiological Signs in Renal Pathologies: A Meta-Analysis. Eur J Radiol. 2021;134:109412.

meta_analysis2021

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Hairy Kidney Sign C6055460. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy