Surgery may be the most common option, but the doctor may also use other treatments, such as targeted drug therapy or immunotherapy, to relieve symptoms and control tumor growth. Surgery may also involve removing a portion of the kidney. In some cases, the surgeon may remove all the affected organ, but the remaining kidney will continue to function normally.
A kidney biopsy is a test that confirms cancer. The doctor uses imaging technology to guide the procedure. During this procedure, the doctor inserts a needle to remove a small piece of tissue from the kidney to be examined under a microscope. If the biopsy indicates that a tumor is cancerous, the doctor may recommend further tests to rule out other conditions. Early detection improves the chance of successful treatment. Medical experts use statistics from previous cases to determine a person’s survival after being diagnosed with kidney cancer.
The most common symptom of kidney cancer is blood in the urine. Blood in the urine is common, but it may also be caused by benign conditions, such as infections or kidney stones. Sometimes, blood cells may be visible in the urine, but these cells may only be detected during a urine test. It is important to visit a doctor if you notice any of these symptoms. Your doctor will run a urine test and check for kidney cancer.
Some other factors can increase your risk of developing kidney cancer. Some inherited syndromes and diseases are linked to an increased risk. Von Hippel-Lindau disease and hereditary papillary RCC are two examples of inherited syndromes. Other risk factors include being exposed to toxic substances regularly, including certain metal degreasers and cadmium, which is used in welding. Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk factors and take steps to reduce them.
Kidney cancer is caused by a change in the DNA of cells, resulting in an uncontrolled growth of tumors. Eventually, the cancerous tumors spread through the lymphatic system, a network of nodes and glands throughout the body. Renal cell carcinoma, or RCC, is one of the most common types of kidney cancer. Men are twice as likely to develop this type of cancer as women are. When this changes, the cancerous cells can spread to other tissues, including organs such as the lungs.
Treatment for kidney cancer may depend on the stage and grade of the tumor and your general health. It is essential to see a physician as soon as possible to receive the appropriate treatment. Your doctor may recommend surgery or chemotherapy. It is important to choose your treatment based on the stage of the disease, as early treatment is usually more effective. Your doctor will ask you to participate in clinical trials if you’ve been diagnosed with kidney cancer.
