Kidney Cancer

Overview

Kidney cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys, which are two bean-shaped organs located behind the abdominal organs. The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma, while in children, it is more likely to be Wilms' tumor. Kidney cancer usually doesn't have symptoms in its early stages, but in time, symptoms may develop, such as blood in the urine, persistent back or side pain, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, tiredness, and fever. The causes of most kidney cancers are not clear, but DNA mutations in kidney cells play a role. Some factors that can increase the risk of kidney cancer include older age, smoking, obesity, and a family history of kidney cancer.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

Symptoms of kidney cancer usually don't appear in the early stages. However, in time, some signs and symptoms may develop, which may include:

1. Blood in your urine, which may appear pink, red, or cola-colored
2. Pain in your back or side that doesn't go away
3. Loss of appetite
4. Unexplained weight loss
5. Tiredness
6. Fever Remember that these symptoms can also be associated with other health conditions. If you have any persistent signs or symptoms that worry you, make an appointment with your doctor.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing kidney cancer include older age, smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, treatment for kidney failure, and certain inherited syndromes. A family history of kidney cancer can also increase the risk. Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing high blood pressure can help reduce the risk.

Development

In adults, renal cell carcinoma is the most common type of kidney cancer. Renal cell carcinoma develops from the lining of the small tubes in the kidney (renal tubules) and is the most common type of kidney cancer. Other less common types of kidney cancer can occur, and these may develop differently. For example, Wilms' tumor is a type of kidney cancer more commonly found in young children. It develops in the cells that develop into the kidney's functional units (nephrons). The exact causes and mechanisms of kidney cancer development are not entirely clear, but it is known that DNA mutations in kidney cells lead to abnormal cell growth and the formation of tumors.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

You should see a doctor if you have persistent signs or symptoms that worry you and may indicate kidney cancer. These symptoms may include blood in your urine, pain in your back or side that doesn't go away, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, tiredness, or fever. It is important to seek medical advice if you experience any of these symptoms, as early detection and treatment can improve the outcome and prognosis.

Diagnosis

To diagnose kidney cancer, your doctor may perform the following tests and procedures:

1. Blood and urine tests: These tests may provide clues about the presence of kidney cancer by examining your blood and urine samples.
2. Imaging tests: Your doctor may use ultrasound, X-ray, CT scan, or MRI to visualize any kidney tumors or abnormalities.
3. Removing a sample of kidney tissue (biopsy): In some cases, your doctor may recommend a biopsy to collect a tissue sample for laboratory analysis, which can confirm the presence of cancer. Kidney cancer staging is then determined using additional imaging tests, such as CT scans, to assess the extent of the cancer.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Potential complications of kidney cancer may include:

1. Spread of cancer (metastasis): Cancer cells may spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, bones, or brain, causing additional tumors to form.
2. Invasion of surrounding organs: As the tumor grows, it may invade nearby organs, such as the liver, pancreas, or adrenal gland, causing damage or functional impairment.
3. Nerve damage: If the tumor is located near nerves, it may cause compression or damage, leading to pain or difficulty with urination.
4. Blood vessel obstruction: Kidney cancer may obstruct blood vessels, impairing blood flow to vital organs and potentially causing organ damage or failure.
5. Treatment side effects: Treatments for kidney cancer, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, may cause complications like infection, bleeding, or damage to healthy cells and tissues.
6. Hormonal imbalances: Some kidney cancers produce hormones that can cause specific complications, such as high blood calcium levels or an overactive thyroid gland. It's important to discuss potential complications with your doctor to better understand the risks associated with kidney cancer and to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Home Remedies

It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of kidney cancer.

Treatment

Treatment options for kidney cancer depend on various factors such as cancer type, stage, and overall health. Some common treatment options include:

1. Surgery: Kidney-sparing surgery (partial nephrectomy) is preferred when possible to preserve kidney function. A complete nephrectomy may be necessary for larger tumors or multiple tumors.
2. Nonsurgical treatments: Small kidney cancers can be treated with nonsurgical methods like cryoablation (freezing cancer cells), radiofrequency ablation (heating cancer cells), or targeted therapy and immunotherapy (using drugs to target specific abnormalities within cancer cells).
3. Radiation therapy: High-energy beams like X-rays or protons may be used to kill cancer cells, particularly to control or reduce symptoms in cases where the cancer has spread to other areas.
4. Treatments for advanced and recurrent kidney cancer: If the cancer returns or spreads, treatments may focus on controlling the disease and managing symptoms. Surgery may be used to remove as much of the cancer as possible, and other therapies may be employed to maintain comfort and quality of life. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional and discuss your specific diagnosis and treatment options.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for kidney cancer, you should:

1. Make an appointment with your primary care doctor or a specialist if you have signs or symptoms that worry you.
2. Ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restricting your diet.
3. Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including those that may seem unrelated to cancer.
4. Bring a list of key personal information, including major stresses and recent life changes.
5. Make a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you're taking.
6. Consider bringing a family member or friend for support.
7. Bring any previous scans, X-rays, or medical records relevant to your situation.
8. Seek support from a good listener, counselor, medical social worker, clergy member, or cancer support group.
9. Ask your doctor about local support groups and resources such as the National Cancer Institute and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Remember to prepare a list of questions for your doctor, prioritizing them based on importance. This will help you make the most of your appointment and gather the information you need.