Kidney Cancer Treatment in Noida, Delhi, India

Overview

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, develops when malignant cells form in the kidneys. The kidneys are crucial organs responsible for regulating fluid balance, controlling blood pressure, and eliminating waste from the body.

Types of Kidney Cancer

Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): The most common form, RCC accounts for about 90% of kidney cancer cases. It usually appears as a single tumor but can also present multiple tumors in one or both kidneys. The major subtypes are Clear Cell Carcinoma and Papillary Carcinoma.

Urothelial Carcinoma: Also known as transitional cell carcinoma, this type makes up 5-10% of kidney cancer cases. It originates from the urothelial cells lining the renal pelvis, ureters, and bladder.

Sarcoma: A rare form of kidney cancer originating in the kidney’s connective tissues.Treatment typically includes surgery and chemotherapy, as sarcomas have a high recurrence risk.

Wilms Tumor: The most common type of kidney cancer in children, accounting for about 1% of cases. It is generally treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Lymphoma: Involves the kidneys and may manifest as enlarged lymph nodes. It is often treated with biopsy and chemotherapy.

Kidney Cancer Symptoms

Kidney cancer typically does not show symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Back pain
• Hematuria (blood in urine)
• Loss of appetite
• Bone pain
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Anemia
• Persistent tiredness

If these symptoms persist, it is essential to seek advice from a healthcare provider.

Causes of Kidney Cancer

The exact causes of kidney cancer are unknown, but it occurs when there are mutations in the DNA of kidney cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for kidney cancer include:

• Age
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Hypertension
• Genetic conditions like Von Hippel-Lindau disease
• Family history of kidney cancer
• Long-term dialysis
• Exposure to certain chemicals like asbestos and cadmium

Diagnosis

To diagnose kidney cancer, the following tests are commonly used:

Blood and Urine Tests: Assess the levels of various cells and substances in the body.

Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the kidney for lab analysis. Biopsies are generally used when imaging results are inconclusive.

Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays help determine the tumor’s size, location, and stage.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and stage of kidney cancer and the patient’s overall health. The main treatment modalities include:

Surgery: The most common treatment for kidney cancer, which may involve:

• Nephrectomy: Removal of the entire kidney, surrounding tissues, and sometimes adjacent lymph nodes.
• Partial Nephrectomy: Removal of the cancerous part of the kidney, sparing the rest of the organ.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): A minimally invasive procedure using heat to destroy cancer cells, typically used for small tumors.

Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cell abnormalities, slowing or stopping their growth.

Immunotherapy: Enhances the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Quitting smoking
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Controlling blood pressure

Complications

Complications of kidney cancer may include hypertension, polycythemia (increased red blood cell count), and persistent bleeding. These require careful medical management.

Prognosis

The prognosis depends on cancer type, stage, and spread, as well as the patient’s overall health. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Reviewed & Updated On: 15-Jun-2023

Reviewed by Dr. R.K. Choudhary, Director & Head – Medical Oncology, Haemato Oncology & BMT