Kidney Cancer: Causes, Risk Factors, Symptoms, Treatment
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Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer

Renal cell cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma, is a type of kidney cancer that originates in the cells lining the small tubes within the kidney. It is one of the most common types of kidney cancer, accounting for approximately 90% of all cases. This form of cancer typically affects adults and is more common in men than women. 

Kidney cancer

If you suspect you or someone else is experiencing Kidney cancer, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or consult with a Cancer Specialist.

Causes of Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer

  • Smoking: Increases the risk of kidney cancer due to harmful chemicals in tobacco.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight is linked to hormonal changes that may increase kidney cancer risk.
  • High Blood Pressure: Chronic hypertension or medications used to treat it can contribute to renal cell cancer.
  • Genetic Factors: Family history and genetic conditions like von Hippel-Lindau disease elevate the risk.
  • Age: Older adults, typically over the age of 50, are more likely to develop kidney cancer.
  • Gender: Men are more prone to kidney cancer compared to women.
  • Chronic Kidney Disease: Poor kidney function over time increases the likelihood of cancer.
  • Long-Term Dialysis: Extended dialysis treatment can increase cancer risk in damaged kidneys.
  • Exposure to Chemicals: Frequent exposure to certain chemicals, such as asbestos or cadmium, may heighten the risk.
  • Radiation Exposure: Past radiation treatments can be a contributing factor, especially in high doses.

Risk Factors of Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer

  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • Family history of kidney cancer
  • Certain genetic conditions (e.g., von Hippel-Lindau disease)
  • Male gender
  • Age over 60
  • Exposure to certain chemicals (e.g., asbestos, cadmium)
  • Long-term dialysis

Symptoms of Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer

  • Blood in Urine (Hematuria): Often appears as pink, red, or cola-colored urine.
  • Lower Back or Side Pain: Persistent pain on one side of the lower back or flank area.
  • Lump or Mass in the Abdomen: A noticeable lump or swelling in the abdominal area or side.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden weight loss without changes in diet or exercise.
  • Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or lack of energy.
  • Fever: Recurrent fevers not related to an infection.
  • Loss of Appetite: Decreased interest in food, leading to reduced calorie intake.
  • Anemia: Low red blood cell count causing paleness, weakness, and shortness of breath.
  • Swelling in the Legs or Ankles: Often due to impaired kidney function or tumor-related pressure.
  • High Blood Pressure: Kidney cancer can cause elevated blood pressure due to changes in kidney function.

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Diagnosis for Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer

  • Physical Examination: Doctor may check for lumps, swelling, or signs of abnormality in the abdomen or lower back.
  • Urine Tests: To check for blood in the urine or abnormal cells that may suggest kidney cancer.
  • Blood Tests: To assess kidney function, check for anemia, and detect any other underlying conditions.
  • Imaging Tests:
    • Ultrasound: A non-invasive imaging test that helps identify masses or tumors in the kidneys.
    • CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Provides detailed cross-sectional images to identify the tumor's size, location, and spread.
    • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Helps assess the extent of cancer and involvement of surrounding tissues.
    • X-ray: May be used to detect if the cancer has spread to the lungs or other areas.
  • Biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of the tumor may be removed to examine the cells under a microscope to confirm cancer.
  • Angiography: A specialized imaging test used to evaluate the blood supply to the tumor.
  • Staging: Once diagnosed, additional tests are performed to determine the stage of cancer (whether it has spread).

Treatments for Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer

  • Surgery:

    • Radical Nephrectomy: Removal of the entire kidney along with surrounding tissue and lymph nodes.
    • Partial Nephrectomy: Removal of only the tumor and a small portion of the surrounding kidney tissue, preserving kidney function.

  • Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth, aiming to stop tumor progression.

  • Immunotherapy: Uses the body's immune system to fight cancer cells, often used for advanced kidney cancer.

    • Examples include checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and nivolumab (Opdivo).

  • Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to shrink tumors or relieve symptoms, typically for cases where surgery is not an option.

  • Cryoablation: Freezing of the tumor to destroy cancer cells, used for small tumors or patients who cannot undergo surgery.

  • Ablation Therapy: Includes radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA), where heat or energy is used to destroy tumors.

  • Chemotherapy: Less commonly used for kidney cancer but may be considered in advanced cases or clinical trials.

  • Hormone Therapy: In some cases, drugs are used to block hormones that fuel the growth of cancer cells.

Preventive Measures for Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer

  • Quit Smoking: Avoiding tobacco use can significantly lower the risk of kidney cancer.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Managing obesity through a balanced diet and regular exercise can reduce the risk.
  • Control High Blood Pressure: Properly managing hypertension with lifestyle changes or medication can help lower the risk.
  • Limit Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Avoid exposure to toxins such as asbestos, cadmium, and certain industrial chemicals.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain kidney function and reduces the risk of kidney stones, which may increase cancer risk.
  • Exercise Regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity can help prevent obesity and improve overall health, lowering cancer risk.
  • Avoid Long-Term Use of Certain Medications: If possible, limit the use of medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that may affect kidney function.
  • Protect Against Radiation Exposure: Minimize unnecessary radiation exposure from medical procedures, especially to the abdomen and pelvis area.

Do's & Don’t's

When it comes to managing renal cell cancer, there are certain do's and don'ts that can play a crucial role in supporting treatment and overall well-being. By following these guidelines, patients can optimize their health outcomes and improve their quality of life. 

Do's Don't
Do follow your doctor's treatment plan and attend regular check-ups. Don't ignore symptoms or delay seeking medical advice.
Do maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Don't consume excessive amounts of processed foods, red meats, or high-sodium items.
Do stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Don't smoke or use tobacco products, as they can worsen kidney cancer risks.
Do engage in regular physical activity or exercise as recommended by your healthcare provider. Don't ignore fatigue; get enough rest and avoid overexertion.
Do manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga. Don't neglect mental health—seek support from loved ones or a therapist if needed.
Do follow safety guidelines and protect your kidneys from potential harm or injury. Don't take over-the-counter medications or supplements without consulting your doctor first.
Do communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or changes in your condition. Don't skip scheduled appointments or treatments without consulting your healthcare provider.

If you suspect you or someone else is experiencing Kidney cancer, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or consult with a Cancer Specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions
Renal cell cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma, is a type of kidney cancer that originates in the cells lining the small tubes within the kidney. It is one of the most common types of kidney cancer, accounting for approximately 90% of all cases.
While the exact causes of renal cell cancer are not fully understood, several risk factors have been identified. One significant risk factor is smoking. Research has shown that smokers are at a higher risk of developing renal cell cancer compared to non-smokers. Additionally, exposure to certain chemicals and substances such as asbestos, cadmium, and benzene has also been linked to an increased risk of developing this type of cancer.
Several risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of developing renal cell cancer. One significant factor is age, as the incidence of this disease tends to rise with advancing age. Additionally, men are generally at a higher risk than women.
One of the primary symptoms of renal cell cancer is blood in the urine, also known as hematuria. This can appear as pink, red, or cola-colored urine. Additionally, individuals may experience lower back pain on one side that is persistent and not related to any injury or strain.
One of the primary methods used for diagnosing renal cell cancer is imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These tests help to visualize the kidneys and detect any abnormalities or tumors present. Additionally, ultrasound examinations may also be conducted to obtain detailed images of the kidneys and surrounding tissues.
The choice of treatment depends on various factors such as the stage of cancer, overall health of the patient, and individual preferences.
One common treatment option for renal cell cancer is surgery. This involves removing the tumor and surrounding tissues from the kidney. Surgery may be performed using minimally invasive techniques or traditional open surgery, depending on the size and location of the tumor.
One of the most effective preventive measures is adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes maintaining a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting the consumption of processed foods and sugary drinks. Regular physical activity is also essential in reducing the risk of renal cell cancer.