Overview
Kidneys are two bean-shaped organs about the size of a fist located in the lower abdomen. Their main function is to clean the blood, remove waste products, and make urine.
Kidney cancer develops when kidney cells grow out of control and become cancerous. Cancer mostly starts in the lining of the renal tubules. Most kidney cancers are discovered before they metastasize, but by the time they are found, the tumors are usually quite large.
Causes of Kidney Cancer
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Having advanced kidney disease
- Certain genetic mutations
- Family history
- Exposure to certain chemicals
- Lymphoma
Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
- A lump in the abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Anemia
- Swelling in legs or ankles
- Blood in urine
- Unexplained weight loss
Prevention of Kidney Cancer
- Keep your blood pressure in check
- Avoid smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid exposure to carcinogens
Diagnosis of Kidney Cancer
- Blood and urine tests: Help identify signs and symptoms of cancer.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs visualize kidney tumors or other abnormalities.
- Biopsy: Removal of a small tissue sample for lab testing.
- Angiography: An X-ray that examines the blood vessels of the kidneys.
Treatment of Kidney Cancer
1. Nephrectomy
In this surgery, the entire kidney affected by cancer is removed.
2. Partial Nephrectomy
This surgery removes only the tumor and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. Common for small kidney cancers.
3. Cryoablation
A hollow needle is inserted into the tumor, and cold gas is used to freeze and destroy cancer cells.
4. Radiofrequency Ablation
A probe inserted into the tumor emits an electric current to heat and kill the cancer cells.
5. Targeted Therapy
Uses drugs designed to specifically attack cancer cells, minimizing harm to normal cells.
6. Radiation Therapy
High-energy radiation (like X-rays or protons) kills or slows cancer cell growth. Often used to relieve symptoms of advanced cancer.
7. Immunotherapy
Activates the body's immune system to identify and destroy cancer cells.
Takeaway
Kidney cancer can be managed effectively when detected early. Awareness, lifestyle control, and timely medical consultation are key to better outcomes.
By recognizing symptoms, adopting preventive habits, and following a treatment plan, individuals can improve survival rates and maintain a higher quality of life.