Cancer
Kidney Cancer
About Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, is a disease in which cells in the kidneys become malignant (cancerous) and grow out of control. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist, located behind your abdominal organs on either side of your spine. Their main job is to filter waste products from the blood and make urine.
Common Symptoms
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Persistent back or side pain, not caused by injury
- A lump or mass in the side or abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Fever that comes and goes and is not due to a cold or flu
- Swelling in the ankles or legs
- High blood pressure
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, blood and urine tests, and imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI. A biopsy, where a small tissue sample is removed from the kidney for examination under a microscope, may be performed to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Causes
The exact causes of kidney cancer are not fully understood, but certain risk factors have been identified. These may include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, certain genetic syndromes, and long-term dialysis.
Treatment Overview
Treatment approaches for kidney cancer often depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the individual's overall health. Conventional options commonly include surgery to remove part or all of the kidney, targeted therapy medications, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Some individuals may explore complementary approaches alongside conventional treatments, such as nutritional support or mindfulness practices, though these are not intended to cure cancer.
Prognosis & Outlook
The prognosis for kidney cancer can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, the type of kidney cancer, and the individual's response to treatment. When detected at an early, localized stage, the outlook may often be more favorable.
Types & Variants
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)
The most common type of kidney cancer in adults, accounting for about 90% of cases. It originates in the lining of the kidney's small tubes (tubules).
Clear Cell RCC
The most common subtype of RCC, named for how the cells appear under a microscope.
Papillary RCC
The second most common subtype, characterized by finger-like projections within the tumor.
Chromophobe RCC
A rarer subtype of RCC with large, pale cells.
Transitional Cell Carcinoma
Also known as urothelial carcinoma, this type starts in the renal pelvis, where the kidney meets the ureter. It behaves more like bladder cancer.
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