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Kidney cancer primarily occurs in the kidneys, which filter blood and produce urine. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), accounting for roughly 90% of kidney cancer cases. Sarcoma, urothelial carcinoma, and Wilms' tumour—which is more prevalent in children—are some more forms. A family history of kidney cancer, obesity, hypertension, and smoking are major risk factors. Early on, the condition is frequently asymptomatic. However, symptoms might include a palpable abdominal mass, chronic side or back discomfort, and blood in the urine.
Imaging such as CT scans and MRIs are commonly used for diagnosis. A biopsy may be performed to confirm the kind and stage of the cancer. Depending on the stage, different treatment options include Immunotherapy, Targeted Therapy, Surgery (Nephrectomy), and, less frequently, Radiation Therapy. The outcomes of targeted and immune-based therapy have improved, particularly in patients who are more advanced.
At Manipal Hospitals, the best kidney disease hospital in Mukundapur, our specialists at the Urology Department provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis through personalised treatment plans, ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients with kidney cancer.
The three main risk factors for kidney cancer are smoking, hypertension, and obesity. A family history of the illness and genetic disorders like von Hippel-Lindau's disease might further increase the risk. Kidney cancer is twice as common in men, and the risk increases with age. Other contributing factors include prior Radiation Therapy, exposure to certain substances such as asbestos and cadmium, and chronic renal disease. Addressing these risks with dietary modifications and appropriate medical care constitutes effective prevention.
A palpable bulge in the abdomen, chronic side or back discomfort, and blood in the urine (pink, red, or brown-coloured) are common signs of kidney cancer. Unexplained weight loss, sporadic fever, chronic exhaustion, and loss of appetite are further symptoms. Anaemia, which results in paleness and dyspnoea, ankle and leg oedema, and night sweats are other symptoms. For early identification, it is essential to be aware of these indicators.
Diagnosing kidney cancer involves a combination of a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. Common imaging techniques include:
Ultrasound: Used to visualise the kidneys and detect masses.
CT Scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the kidneys and surrounding tissues.
MRI: Offers high-resolution images, particularly useful for assessing soft tissue and determining the extent of the tumour.
Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP): Uses contrast dye and X-rays to examine the urinary system.
PET Scan: Sometimes used to detect cancer metastases.
A Needle Biopsy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for confirmation. These diagnostic methods help determine the stage and extent of the cancer, guiding treatment decisions.
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC), urothelial carcinoma, renal sarcoma, Wilms' tumour (which mostly affects children), and collecting duct carcinoma are among the several forms of kidney cancer. Treatment options vary according to the kind, stage, and degree of aggressiveness; Surgery, Chemotherapy, and Targeted Treatments are frequently used. The prognosis for aggressive kinds such as renal sarcoma and collecting duct carcinoma varies from bad to favourable in the early stages of the disease. The prognosis and effectiveness of therapy are greatly impacted by early identification.
Surgical options for treating kidney cancer include:
Nephrectomy:
Radical Nephrectomy: Removal of the entire kidney, often indicated for larger or more advanced tumours.
Partial Nephrectomy: Removal of the tumour while preserving the rest of the kidney, typically indicated for smaller tumours or when preserving kidney function is crucial.
Lymph Node Dissection: Removal of nearby lymph nodes to evaluate the spread of cancer.
Ablation Therapy: Targets small tumours using high-energy waves (Radiofrequency Ablation) or extreme cold (Cryoablation). This option is considered for patients who may not be good candidates for traditional surgery due to health concerns or when the tumours are small and localised.
The choice of surgical approach depends on the patient's overall health, the size and stage of the tumour, and the aim to balance cancer control with the preservation of kidney function.
In kidney cancer, targeted treatments obstruct particular chemicals or pathways—such as angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels) and cell signalling—that propel the growth of the malignancy. Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) like Sunitinib and mTOR Inhibitors like Temsirolimus are common medications.
Immunotherapies improve the body's capacity to identify and combat cancerous cells. Pembrolizumab and Nivolumab are examples of immune checkpoint inhibitors that disrupt inhibitory pathways and boost the immune system. Patients with advanced kidney cancer had better results when using these medications alone or in combination.
Hereditary mutations associated with kidney cancer, such as Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, hereditary papillary renal carcinoma (HPRC), and Birt-Hogg-Dubé (BHD) syndrome, can be identified by genetic testing. It makes surveillance, early detection, and customised management possible. Testing directs preventative actions like routine screenings or procedures and assists in counselling those who are at risk. Mutants may enrol in clinical trials for targeted therapies. All things considered, genetic testing improves kidney cancer risk assessment, family counselling, and precision treatment approaches.
The prognosis for kidney cancer is greatly improved by early identification; localised tumours have over 90% five-year survival rates. While not regular, screening is advised for high-risk people, such as those with hereditary disorders or a family history of the condition. Early abnormality detection is possible with imaging tests such as blood and urine tests, CT scans, or ultrasound scans. Consultation with a healthcare professional allows customised screening according to personal risk factors, which may result in prompt action and improved results.
People should give up smoking, keep a healthy weight, and eat a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats to reduce their risk of kidney cancer. Regular exercise, moderation in alcohol consumption, and enough hydration are also important. It's critical to control blood pressure and long-term illnesses like diabetes. Risk can be further decreased by limiting exposure to carcinogens at work. These lifestyle modifications lower the risk of kidney cancer while enhancing general health and well-being.
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