General Information

What is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer begins in the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering waste from the blood and producing urine. The development of masses within the kidneys can disrupt this function and may indicate the presence of cancer.

Risk Factors for Kidney Cancer:

• Obesity: Excess body weight is associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer.
• Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of kidney cancer.
• High Blood Pressure: Hypertension is a known risk factor.
• Genetics: A family history of kidney cancer can increase risk.
• Long-term Dialysis: Prolonged dialysis treatment for kidney failure can increase the risk.
• Other Medical Interventions: Certain medical treatments and conditions can contribute to the risk.

Symptoms of Kidney Cancer:

• Hematuria (blood in the urine)
• Flank pain
• Low back pain
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Anemia

Diagnosis

To diagnose kidney cancer, your doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination.

Additional tests may include:

• Urinalysis: To detect blood or other abnormalities in the urine.
• Blood Tests: To assess kidney function and detect anemia.
• Imaging Tests: Such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to visualize the kidneys and detect masses.
• Biopsy: Taking a sample of kidney tissue to examine for cancer cells.

Treatment

Treatment for kidney cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer and may include:

Surgery:

• Nephrectomy: Surgical removal of the kidney (radical nephrectomy) or removal of the tumor while sparing the kidney (partial nephrectomy). This is most commonly performed robotically through small incisions.

Ablation Techniques:

• Cryoablation: Freezing cancer cells to kill them.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: Using high-energy radio waves to heat and destroy cancer cells.

Targeted Therapy:

• Medications that specifically target cancer cells and inhibit their growth.

Immunotherapy:

• Treatments that help the body’s immune system fight cancer.

Radiation Therapy:

• Using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, typically used when surgery is not an option.

Your urologist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific condition and overall health.