The Role of YouTube in Patient Education on Renal Oncocytoma: A Quality Assessment.

Introduction The increasing use of advanced imaging techniques has led to more frequent detection of renal masses, including benign tumours like renal oncocytomas. Although typically asymptomatic, these tumours can complicate diagnosis due to their resemblance to renal cell carcinoma (RCC) on imaging studies. Treatment strategies for renal oncocytomas depend on tumour size, symptoms, and imaging features. As patients increasingly turn to online platforms for health information, YouTube has become a popular source for educational videos. However, the quality and reliability of such videos vary. This study evaluates YouTube videos on renal oncocytoma to assess their role in patient education. Materials and methods A systematic search of YouTube was conducted on September 5, 2025, using the keyword "renal oncocytoma." A total of 60 videos were screened, and 10 met the inclusion criteria. The educational quality and reliability of the selected videos were assessed using the Global Quality Score (GQS) and the DISCERN instrument. Video popularity was assessed with the Video Power Index (VPI). A one-sample t-test was used to compare the average GQS and DISCERN scores with predefined benchmarks. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (ρ) was used to evaluate associations between these metrics. Results The videos analysed had a mean GQS of 3.7 ± 0.90, significantly higher than the midpoint score of 3 (p = 0.037), indicating moderate educational quality. DISCERN scores revealed that while the videos clearly stated their aims (mean score 4.8 ± 0.98, p = 0.0003), they often fell short in providing detailed, patient-centered information. The mean score for describing treatment options was 2.1 ± 1.81 (p = 0.15), and there was a notable lack of transparency regarding information sources, with a mean score of 1.7 ± 1.23 (p = 0.008). Although the videos provided current information (mean score 4.4 ± 0.94, p = 0.001), they did not adequately address uncertainties (mean score 2.0 ± 1.00, p = 0.011) or support shared decision-making (mean score 2.3 ± 1.65, p = 0.207). The VPI revealed no significant correlation with the quality metrics, with a moderate negative correlation between GQS and VPI (ρ = -0.424, p = 0.299) and a weak negative correlation between DISCERN and VPI (ρ = -0.141, p = 0.757). Conclusion This study highlights the potential of YouTube as an educational tool for renal oncocytoma, but it also underscores significant gaps in the quality and reliability of the information provided. The videos often lack comprehensive discussions on treatment options, transparency, and addressing uncertainties, which are essential for informed patient decision-making. Although YouTube can serve as a starting point for general information, patients should consult healthcare professionals for accurate, personalised advice. Efforts to improve the quality of health-related content on YouTube are needed to better support patient education.