What Is Kidney Cancer?
Understanding, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC), is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys. The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste and producing urine. Kidney cancer typically begins in the lining of small tubes within the kidney, known as renal tubules.1
Symptoms and Diagnosis
In the early stages, kidney cancer often presents with minimal or no symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, common symptoms may include2:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the back or side
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling in the ankles or legs
To diagnose kidney cancer, a series of tests may be conducted, including imaging studies, such as CT scans or MRI, blood tests, and a biopsy. These tests help determine the presence of cancer, its stage, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Types of Kidney Cancer
There are several types of kidney cancer, with the most common being renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Other less common types include transitional cell carcinoma, Wilms’ tumor (typically affecting children), and renal sarcoma.3 Each type may have distinct characteristics and treatment approaches, which will be carefully evaluated by our team.
Treatment Options
We offer a range of treatment options for kidney cancer that are tailored to each patient’s specific diagnosis and needs. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, overall health, and personal preferences. Our dedicated team of cancer experts will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that best suits your needs.
Surgery
Surgical removal of the tumor, or in some cases, the entire kidney, may be recommended. This can be done through different approaches, such as a partial nephrectomy (removal of the tumor while preserving healthy kidney tissue) or a radical nephrectomy (removal of the entire kidney).
Radiation Therapy
High-energy radiation is used to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be used as the main treatment or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy. We utilize a linear accelerator, which is a new automated technology that enables us to deliver the most accurate treatments possible.
Immunotherapy
This treatment helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It can be administered directly into the bladder (intravesical therapy) or systemically.
Targeted Therapy
Utilizes medications that specifically target cancer cells and their unique characteristics, inhibiting their growth and spread.
1Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Kidney cancer—Symptoms and causes. MayoClinic.org. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352664
2American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Signs and symptoms of kidney cancer. American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/kidney-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html
3Kidney Cancer Association. (n.d.). Kidney cancer types. Kidney Cancer Association. https://www.kidneycancer.org/kidney-cancer-types/
