Kidney Cancer

What is Kidney Cancer?

 

Kidney cancer occurs when malignant cells develop in the tissues of the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering blood and producing urine. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), accounting for nearly 90% of kidney cancers. Early-stage kidney cancer often does not cause symptoms, making early detection through imaging tests critical.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing kidney cancer, including:

• Smoking – Increases the risk of kidney cancer by exposing the body to harmful toxins.
• Obesity – Excess body weight is linked to hormonal changes that may contribute to tumor growth.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – Chronic hypertension may increase the likelihood of kidney cancer.
• Family History – A genetic predisposition may elevate risk, especially for inherited conditions like Von Hippel-Lindau disease.
• Chronic Kidney Disease & Dialysis – Long-term kidney disease, particularly in patients undergoing dialysis, increases cancer risk.
• Workplace Exposure – Contact with certain industrial chemicals, such as asbestos, cadmium, or herbicides, may contribute to kidney cancer.

Symptoms

Kidney cancer is often detected incidentally during imaging for unrelated conditions. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

• Blood in the urine (hematuria) – Urine may appear pink, red, or brown.
• Lower back or side pain – Persistent pain in the flank area, often on one side.
• Unexplained weight loss – Losing weight without changes in diet or activity.
• Fatigue and general weakness – Common in advanced stages.
• Fever – Persistent fevers not linked to an infection.
• Palpable mass in the abdomen – A lump may be felt in some cases.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the tumor size, stage, and overall kidney function.

Robotic Surgery

• Minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery allows for precise tumor removal while preserving kidney function.
• Benefits include smaller incisions, faster recovery, and reduced complications compared to open surgery.

Partial Nephrectomy

• Also known as kidney-sparing surgery, a partial nephrectomy removes only the tumor while preserving healthy kidney tissue.
• Recommended for smaller tumors or cases where preserving kidney function is essential.

Radical Nephrectomy

• In cases of larger or more advanced tumors, a radical nephrectomy (complete removal of the affected kidney) may be necessary.
• Can be performed robotically or through open surgery, depending on tumor size and location.

Prevention

While not all kidney cancers can be prevented, certain lifestyle choices may reduce risk:

• Quit Smoking – Reduces exposure to carcinogens linked to kidney cancer.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight – Helps regulate hormones that may contribute to cancer development.
• Control Blood Pressure – Managing hypertension through diet, exercise, and medication may lower risk.
• Stay Hydrated – Proper hydration supports kidney function and may reduce the accumulation of harmful substances.
• Limit Exposure to Harmful Chemicals – Avoid prolonged exposure to hazardous workplace chemicals.

Kidney cancer is often highly treatable when detected early. If you experience symptoms or have risk factors, consult a urology specialist for screening and personalized treatment options.