This type of kidney cancer originates in the kidney tubules and is the most common form of cancer. If not detected and treated early, renal cell carcinoma can be a serious condition. The causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of renal cell carcinoma are discussed here.
Several factors may increase the risk of developing renal cell carcinoma, including:
The use of tobacco is a significant risk factor for renal cell carcinoma, with smokers being at a higher risk than non-smokers.
Overweight and obesity increase the risk of developing renal cell carcinoma.
An increased risk of kidney cancer is associated with hypertension.
There are certain hereditary conditions that can predispose individuals to kidney cancer, such as von Hippel-Lindau disease and hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma.
Exposure to chemicals, such as cadmium or asbestos, may increase the risk of kidney cancer.
The tumor may not cause symptoms in its early stages, but as it grows, it can cause various signs and symptoms, such as:
Hematuria (blood in the urine)
Pain in the back, usually below the ribs, that doesn't go away
Weight loss that is unexplained
Tiredness
Appetite loss
Legs or ankles swollen
Aplastic anemia
Blood pressure is high
A combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging studies, and biopsy is typically used to diagnose renal cell carcinoma. Diagnostic procedures may include:
To assess the extent of the tumor, a CT scan, MRI, ultrasound, or PET scan may be performed.
Kidney function and markers associated with kidney cancer can be assessed through blood tests.
During a biopsy, a sample of tissue from the kidney may be removed and examined under a microscope.
Renal cell carcinoma treatment options vary depending on a number of factors, including the stage of the cancer, overall health, and individual preferences.
For localized tumors, partial nephrectomy or radical nephrectomy may be performed.
Medications that target specific pathways involved in cancer growth and spread, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors, may be used for advanced or metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
Advanced kidney cancer can be treated with immune therapy, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, which stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.
The use of high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells is often combined with other treatments for advanced or metastatic cancer.
The following steps can be taken to prevent renal cell carcinoma:
Tobacco avoidance: Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke can significantly reduce kidney cancer risk.
A balanced diet and regular physical activity can reduce the risk of obesity-related cancers, such as renal cell carcinoma.
Regular monitoring and management of hypertension can reduce the risk of kidney cancer and other cardiovascular complications.
Kidney cancer can be reduced by minimizing exposure to occupational toxins, such as asbestos and cadmium.
