Bosniak 3 kidney cyst - not sure whether to have it removed or monitor for 4 months with another scan

I had a ultrasound scan due to bloating and pains, they found a complex cyst got referred for mri then they said it was bosniak 3 complex cyst, they said they needed a CT scan to confirm nature but still say it’s 50% chance of cancer, my 3 options are 1. Partial removal of kidney but requires open surgery and there’s a chance kidney may not function due to location of the cyst right next to main blood vessel to the kidney if it doesn’t function further surgery required to remove the kidney which sounds super risky and the doctor said there could be numerous complications, 2nd keyhole surgery to remove the full cyst, still could result in open surgery, 3rd is to monitor it over 4 months with another scan but I am so unsure what to do my family are pushing for me to have there’s full kidney to be removed but I honestly don’t know I have 3 young children and feel overwhelmed anxious and upset by it all. Any advice would be helpful. 

  • A very warm welcome to Cancer Chat clo10 although I'm sorry about to hear a bosniak 3 complex cyst has been found in your kidney.

    Making decisions about treatment can be tricky, especially when your preferred choice may conflict with what your family would want for you, so if you'd like to discuss your options with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They will do all they can to support you and help you figure out what's right for you.

    So many of our members know how tough it can be to decide what treatment to go for, so you are not alone clo10, and I'm sure it won't be long until you receive some support and advice.

    Whatever you decide, we are here for you clo10 and will support you every step of the way.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator