Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer can occur from the outer part of the kidney or the inner lining. The outer cortex of the kidney filters the blood and concentrates the excrement into urine. Kidney cancer that arises from this area is known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Renal cell carcinoma incidence rates are increasing; currently renal cell carcinoma occurs in approximately 55,000 new cases a year. The inner lining of the kidney, which funnels and drains urine, can also be a source for kidney cancer (urothelial or transitional cell carcinoma) which is similar to most bladder cancers.
Both types of kidney cancers require either partial or whole nephrectomy, or removal of the kidney, and in the case of urothelial carcinoma, removal of the ureter drainage tube down to the bladder.
Kidney Cancer Risk Factors and Symptoms
Kidney cancer is most common in men over 40. Kidney cancer risk factors include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and long-term dialysis. Common kidney cancer symptoms include blood in the urine, side pain that doesn't go away, a lump or mass in the side or abdomen,unexplained weight loss, fever, and fatigue.
Diagnosing Kidney Cancer
If kidney cancer is suspected, the doctor may perform a physical exam, urine tests and blood tests. These may be followed by an intravenous pyelogram (IVP), a test in which dye is injected into a vein in the arm and collects in the kidneys. A series of x-rays tracks the dye as it moves through the kidneys and will be able to identify a tumor or other irregularity. Other imaging tests, such as CT scan or ultrasound may be performed as well. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis of kidney cancer. In a biopsy, the doctor inserts a thin needle into the kidney and removes a small tissue sample for testing. Kidney cancer is treated with surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and, rarely, chemotherapy.
Learn more about cancer treatment options.
