Kidney Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and More

10 min read Posted on 8 Jul 2024

Office meeting with people working on design

Kidney cancer, though less commonly discussed compared to other types of cancer, is a significant health concern affecting many individuals worldwide, including in India. Often, its symptoms can go unnoticed or be mistaken for other conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

The lack of awareness underscores the importance of understanding the symptoms and causes of kidney cancer—from recognizing its early signs to navigating the available treatment options./

According to recent data, kidney cancer ranks as the 14th most common cancer globally, with a noticeable incidence among the Indian population as well.

In this comprehensive guide, we want to cover the symptoms, diagnosis methods, treatment modalities, and essential insights to help you or your loved ones deal with this condition when diagnosed.

What is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, begins when abnormal cells in one or both kidneys start to grow uncontrollably. These cells can accumulate and form a tumor, potentially spreading to other body parts if left untreated.

In India, kidney cancer affects a significant number of individuals, though awareness of its symptoms and risk factors remains crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Understanding the basics of kidney cancer, including its causes and how it develops, can provide a foundation to recognize potential signs and seek timely medical care.

What are the Symptoms of Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer symptoms may not always be obvious in its initial stages. However, common signs to watch for include:

Blood in Urine (Hematuria) : It is one of the most common early signs. Blood in the urine may become pink, red, or cola-colored.
Persistent Pain : Persistent pain in the side or lower back that doesn't go away, especially on one side, may indicate a tumor pressing on nerves or organs.
Lump or Mass : A palpable lump in the abdomen or side may be noticeable upon physical examination.
Fatigue and Weight Loss : Unexplained fatigue, loss of appetite, and unintentional weight loss can sometimes accompany kidney cancer.
Fever and Night Sweats : In some cases, individuals may experience fever that comes and goes (intermittent fever) and night sweats without an obvious cause.
Other Symptoms : Less common symptoms include high blood pressure (hypertension), swelling of the legs, and a general feeling of being unwell (malaise).

What are the Primary Causes of Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer typically develops when cells in the kidneys mutate. While the exact cause of these mutations is often unclear, several factors may increase the risk of developing kidney cancer, including the following:

Tobacco use, including smoking cigarettes or cigars, significantly increases the risk of kidney cancer.
Being overweight is associated with a higher likelihood of developing kidney cancer, possibly due to hormone level changes and insulin resistance.
Chronic hypertension is a risk factor for this condition, though the exact connection is still being studied.
A family history of kidney cancer or certain inherited genetic conditions can increase the risk.
Kidney cancer most commonly affects individuals over the age of 40, with the risk increasing with age.
Certain occupational exposures to substances like cadmium, asbestos, etc. may increase the risk of kidney cancer.
Individuals with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or those on long-term dialysis may have a higher risk of kidney cancer.

**While these factors may increase the likelihood of developing kidney cancer, many people diagnosed with the disease do not have any known risk factors.

What are the Types of Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer can manifest in different forms, each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches. The primary types of kidney cancer include:

Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)

This is the most common type of kidney cancer, and it originates in the lining of the kidney's tubules. It includes several subtypes, which are:

Clear Cell RCC - the most prevalent subtype, characterized by clear cells when viewed under a microscope
Papillary RCC - Characterized by growths called papillae.
Chromophobe RCC - a less common subtype with distinctive pale cells

Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC)

Also known as urothelial carcinoma, this type of kidney cancer begins in the renal pelvis or ureter. It is more closely associated with cancers of the urinary tract.

Wilms Tumor

This type of kidney cancer is primarily found in children and is rare in adults. It usually affects children under the age of 5 and is treatable with surgery and sometimes chemotherapy.

More About the Stages of Kidney Cancer

The stages of kidney cancer are typically categorized as follows:

Stage	Description	Characteristics
Stage I	Tumor is small, confined to the kidney	Tumor size usually < 7 cm
Stage II	Tumor is larger but still confined to the kidney	Tumor size > 7 cm
Stage III	Tumor has extended beyond the kidney to nearby tissues, organs, or lymph nodes	IIIA: Spread to nearby lymph nodes IIIB: Spread to nearby large veins or tissues IIIC: Spread to nearby lymph nodes and possibly nearby large veins
Stage IV	Cancer has gone beyond the kidney to distant organs or lymph nodes	IVA: Spread to one distant organ or site IVB: Spread to more than one distant organ or site

More About Diagnosis of Kidney Cancer

Diagnosing kidney cancer involves several steps to identify the location and extent of the disease. Key methods used in the diagnosis of kidney cancer include:

CT Scan (Computed Tomography)
A CT scan creates detailed cross-sectional images of the kidneys and surrounding tissues, helping to identify tumors and assess their size and location.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
MRI uses magnetic fields to produce detailed images of organs and tissues, providing information similar to a CT scan but without radiation.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the patient’s kidneys and can help detect solid masses or cysts.
Needle Biopsy
A biopsy involves taking a tissue sample from the kidney for examination under a microscope. This procedure may be performed if imaging tests suggest a tumor or if there is uncertainty about the diagnosis.
Blood Tests
Blood tests, including renal function tests and specific tumor markers, can provide information about kidney function and may indicate the presence of kidney cancer.
Urine Tests
Urinalysis can detect blood in the urine (hematuria) or other abnormalities that may suggest kidney cancer.

These tests are accompanied by a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider, including a medical history review and physical examination.

More About Kidney Cancer Treatment

Treatment for kidney cancer depends on the cancer stage, patient's overall health, and their preferences. The primary options for kidney cancer treatment include:

Nephrectomy
This surgical procedure removes a part or all of the affected kidney. Depending on the tumor size and location, a partial nephrectomy (removal of part of the kidney) or radical nephrectomy (entire kidney and surrounding tissue removal) may be performed.
Targeted Therapy
Drugs targeting specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth, such as sunitinib, pazopanib, and axitinib, may be used to block the growth of kidney cancer cells.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy drugs, such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab, stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy
High-energy beams are targeted at the cancerous tissue to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. Radiation therapy may be used in cases where surgery is not an option or to alleviate symptoms.
Chemotherapy
While traditional chemotherapy is not typically effective against kidney cancer, certain chemotherapy drugs may be used in combination with other treatments for advanced or metastatic kidney cancer.

Financial Planning for Kidney Cancer Treatment

Managing the expenses associated with kidney cancer treatment can be challenging. From diagnostic tests to surgery and ongoing therapies, the costs can add up quickly. This is where being financially prepared can help you a lot.

Health insurance can ease the financial burden related to the treatment involved. You can consider exploring health insurance plans that cover cancer treatment, including surgeries, hospitalizations, medications, and other related expenses. Look for policies that offer comprehensive coverage, including coverage for pre-existing conditions.

If you need help in buying a suitable health insurance policy, connect with RenewBuy Advisors.