What is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the kidneys, the two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the rib cage. The kidneys are responsible for filtering blood and removing waste through urine. The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma, which begins in the lining of the small tubes within the kidneys. Other types include transitional cell carcinoma and Wilms tumor, which is most common in children.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Are Common Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Cancer?

Many cases of kidney cancer are asymptomatic in the early stages. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include:

• Blood in the urine (hematuria)

• Persistent back pain just below the ribs

• Unintended weight loss

• Fatigue

• Fever that comes and goes

• A lump in the abdomen

 

Can We Prevent Kidney Cancer?

While there's no certain way to prevent kidney cancer, certain lifestyle changes can help lower the risk:

• Quit smoking

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Control high blood pressure

• Avoid excessive use of pain relievers and certain other medications

• Limit exposure to harmful substances in the workplace

 

How Do We Diagnose Kidney Cancer?

Diagnosis of kidney cancer typically involves a combination of tests and procedures:

• Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI to visualize the kidneys

• Blood and urine tests to assess kidney function and detect abnormalities

• Biopsy, although not commonly used for kidneys, involves removing a small sample of kidney tissue for testing in certain cases

 

What Treatment Options Are Available for Kidney Cancer?

Treatment for kidney cancer depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient, and may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor or the entire kidney

• Ablation therapies to destroy cancer cells

• Targeted therapy that focuses on specific abnormalities present in cancer cells

• Immunotherapy to help the immune system fight the cancer

• Radiation therapy, often used to relieve symptoms in advanced cancer

Early detection and advances in treatment options have improved the prognosis for many people with kidney cancer.