The intrathoracic kidney.

Two cases of intrathoracic kidney are discussed, both diagnosed by intravenous pyelography when other studies failed to disclose the nature of a left thoracic mass. The potential valve of intravenous pyelography in the study of a posterior mediastinal mass is emphasized. Review of the literature and of these 2 cases indicates that if the intrathoracic kidney occurs as an isolated anomaly it usually functions normally and requires no treatment.