Kidney Cancer

Overview

This disease, also called renal cancer, is a condition in which abnormal cells grow in one or both kidneys. The kidneys are fist-sized organs that filter blood and produce urine. In adults, the most common type of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma. This cancer develops inside the lining of small tubes found in the kidney's cortex and medulla regions.

Causes

The exact cause of kidney cancer is unknown. It is linked to a variety of risk factors. It most commonly occurs in men age 60 and older. Smoking, obesity and exposure to certain chemicals can increase a person's risk for the disease. High blood pressure, advanced kidney disease, and genetic risk factors or a family history of kidney cancer can also increase a person's risk.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include blood in the urine, constant pain below the ribs, and fatigue. Symptoms may also include intermittent fever, anemia, loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss. However, many people with kidney cancer do not experience symptoms in the early stages of the disease.

Treatment

Surgery is the most common treatment for kidney cancer. During surgery, the physician may be able to remove the tumor and leave the rest of the kidney intact. But the physician may remove the entire kidney. This is called nephrectomy. If surgery is not an option, the patient may benefit from other treatments. Options may include cryoablation or radiofrequency ablation. Advanced or recurrent kidney cancer may also be treated with medications or with radiation therapy.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.