What is Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer is a cancer that starts in the lining of very small tubes (tubules) in the kidney. Renal cell carcinoma is the most common type of kidney cancer in adults, responsible for approximately 80% of cases. Risk factors for kidney cancer include cigarette smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and family history of kidney cancer.
Kidney cancer affects more than 80,000 people in the United States every year. It often affects people over the age of 65 and is more common in men than women. The five-year survival rate for people with kidney cancer is 80%. While several factors may influence a person’s survival rate, kidney cancer is often treatable if found early.
The kidneys are a pair of organs that are attached to the upper back wall of the abdomen. Each kidney is about the size of a large fist. They are bean-shaped, and their main job is to filter waste products from the blood. The waste products and excess water removed by the kidneys become urine. Cancer occurs when the cells in the kidney begin to grow out of control. If not caught early, the cancerous cells may spread to other parts of the body.
There are different types of kidney cancer
Renal Cell Carcinoma
The kidneys are made up of many tiny tubes called tubules. Renal Cell Carcinoma occurs when cells in the lining of these tubules begin growing uncontrollably. This is the most common type of kidney cancer and accounts for 80% of diagnosed cases. Renal Cell Carcinoma is a fast-growing cancer and is known to spread to other organs.
Urothelial Carcinoma
Urothelial Carcinoma is also known as transitional cell carcinoma. This type of cancer starts in urothelial cells, and makes up around 10-15% of diagnosed kidney cancers. Urothelial cells are found in the part of the kidney where urine collects before traveling to the bladder for storage.
Sarcoma
Sarcoma develops in the soft (connective) tissues of the kidney and usually grows more quickly than other types of kidney cancer. This type of kidney cancer is rare and is often treated with surgery before it can spread to other parts of the body.
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Kidney Cancer Symptoms, Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Factors
Kidney cancer often does not cause symptoms in its early stages. However, when symptoms do appear, they may include things like blood in the urine, pain in the side or lower back, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or a lump. Smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, age and family history may also increase your risk.
Kidney Cancer Screening
If kidney cancer is suspected, your provider may start with a physical exam and a review of your medical and family history. Urine tests, blood tests, and in some cases a biopsy can help identify signs of kidney cancer and support an accurate diagnosis.
Imaging, Diagnostics, and Follow-Up Care
Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs and ultrasounds help doctors locate a kidney tumor, learn more about its size and determine whether the cancer has spread.
Kidney Cancer Treatment
Kidney cancer treatment is personalized based on the type and stage of cancer and each patient’s individual needs. At UI Health, we offer kidney-sparing and minimally invasive surgery, image-guided ablation, and other medical therapies, as well as access to clinical trials when appropriate.
