Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Cancer

• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Lower back pain on one side (not due to injury)
• A lump or mass in the side or lower back
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever that comes and goes

Types of Kidney Cancer

There are several types of kidney cancer, with the most common being:

• Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): The most common type, accounting for about 90% of all kidney cancers in adults.
• Urothelial Carcinoma: Also known as transitional cell carcinoma, this type starts in the renal pelvis where the kidney meets the ureter.
• Wilms Tumor: A rare kidney cancer that typically affects children.
• Clear Cell Carcinoma: A subtype of RCC known for its clear, pale cells when viewed under a microscope.

When to Consult a Doctor

If you notice blood in your urine, or experience persistent pain in your lower back or side, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Causes

The exact cause of kidney cancer is not fully understood, but it is believed to develop when some kidney cells acquire mutations in their DNA. These mutations cause the cells to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor.

Risk Factors Involved in Kidney Cancer

• Smoking: Smokers have a higher risk of developing kidney cancer.
• Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk of kidney cancer.
• High blood pressure: Hypertension has been linked to a higher risk of kidney cancer.
• Family history: A family history of kidney cancer can increase your risk.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop kidney cancer than women.
• Age: The risk increases with age, especially after 50.

Kidney Cancer Diagnosis

Diagnosing kidney cancer typically involves:

• Imaging tests: Such as CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds to detect abnormalities in the kidney.
• Blood tests: To assess kidney function and detect markers that may indicate cancer.
• Biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of kidney tissue may be removed and examined for cancer cells.

Stages of Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer stages range from 1 to 4:

Stage 1: The tumor is small and confined to the kidney.

Stage 2: The tumor is larger but still confined to the kidney.

Stage 3: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or blood vessels.

Stage 4: The cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or bones.

Treatment of Kidney Cancer

Surgical Intervention

Surgery is the most common treatment for kidney cancer, which may involve:

• Nephrectomy: The complete removal of the affected kidney.
• Partial nephrectomy: Removing only the tumor and a small margin of healthy tissue, preserving as much kidney function as possible.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy focuses on blocking specific molecules that cancer cells need to grow and survive. It is often used for advanced kidney cancer.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy enhances the body's immune response to fight kidney cancer. Checkpoint inhibitors are commonly used for this purpose.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy may be used to relieve symptoms in advanced kidney cancer or when surgery is not an option.

Palliative Care

Palliative care focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life for those with advanced kidney cancer, alongside other treatments.

Prognosis

The prognosis for kidney cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis, with early-stage cancer having a better outcome. Continuous advancements in treatment are improving survival rates.