300 Longwood Avenue Boston, MA 02115 (617) 355-6000 Clinical Services (Kidney Tumors): How do you diagnose kidney tumors? We use several techniques to evaluate the presence of kidney tumors, including: abdominal ultrasound - to image the tumor and entire abdominal area. abdominal computerized tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan) - to detect metastases throughout the body. magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - to determine if there are metastases through lymph nodes and other organs. chest x-ray - to determine if there are metastases (spreading) in the lungs. blood and urine tests - to evaluate kidney and liver function. biopsy - to obtain a tissue sample for microscopic examination. surgery - to remove tumor and/or kidney (nephrectomy). The information on this website should not be taken as medical advice, which can only be given to you by your personal health care professional. Copyright © Children's Hospital Boston. All rights reserved.