Birt-Hogg-Dubé Syndrome

What are the screening options for BHD?

There are no specific screening guidelines for BHD. Due to the risk of kidney cancer, some doctors suggest that individuals who have BHD or a family history of BHD have a yearly ultrasound (which uses sound waves to create a picture of the internal organs) of their kidneys, beginning at age 25. Other doctors suggest an abdominal computed tomography (CT or CAT; creates a three-dimensional picture of the inside of the body) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; uses magnetic fields, not x-rays, to produce detailed images of the body) every two years. Evaluation by a dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in diseases and conditions of the skin) and screening for lung cysts are also suggested.

Screening options may change over time as new technologies are developed and more is learned about BHD. It is important to talk with your doctor about appropriate screening tests.