What is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer, also called renal cancer, begins in the kidneys — two bean-shaped organs located on each side of your spine, just below your rib cage.

They filter blood and produce urine. When abnormal cells in the kidneys start growing out of control, they can form a tumor and potentially spread to other parts of the body.

Types of Kidney Cancer

The most common type of kidney cancer is:

• Renal cell carcinoma (RCC): Accounts for about 9 out of 10 kidney cancers in adults.

Other, less common types include:

• Transitional cell carcinoma

• Wilms tumor (in children)

• Renal sarcoma

Symptoms of Kidney Cancer

In the early stages, kidney cancer may not cause symptoms.

As it grows, you might experience:

• Blood in the urine (even if it’s not visible)

• A lump or mass in the side or lower back

• Persistent pain in the side

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatigue

• Fever that doesn’t go away

⚠️ Important: If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with your doctor.

Diagnosing Kidney Cancer

To diagnose kidney cancer, your doctor may recommend:

• Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI

• Urine and blood tests

• Biopsy: Removing a small tissue sample for lab analysis

Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer

Treatment depends on the size and spread of the tumor, your overall health, and personal preferences.

1. Surgery

The main treatment for most kidney cancers.

• Partial nephrectomy: Removes only the tumor and a small margin of healthy tissue.

• Radical nephrectomy: Removes the entire kidney, and sometimes surrounding tissues and lymph nodes.

Good to know: Most people can live with one kidney after surgery.

2. Ablation and Embolization

Used for smaller tumors when surgery isn’t a good option.

• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or cryoablation: Destroys the tumor using heat or cold.

• Arterial embolization: Blocks blood flow to the tumor, causing it to shrink.

3. Targeted Therapy

These drugs block specific molecules that cancer cells need to grow.

• Often used for advanced or metastatic kidney cancer.

• Examples: Sunitinib, Pazopanib, Axitinib.

4. Immunotherapy

Helps your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.

• Often used in advanced stages.

• Examples: Nivolumab, Ipilimumab, Pembrolizumab.

5. Radiation Therapy

Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.

• Not a common primary treatment

• May help relieve pain or symptoms if the cancer has spread

6. Active Surveillance

If the tumor is small and slow growing, especially in older adults or those with other health issues, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring instead of immediate treatment.

Living with Kidney Cancer

Life after a kidney cancer diagnosis can be challenging, but many people go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Your healthcare team will work with you to:

• Manage side effects

• Monitor for recurrence

• Support your mental and emotional well-being

Tips for Patients

• Stay informed: Understanding your condition helps you make confident decisions.

• Ask questions: No concern is too small to discuss with your doctor.

When to Call Your Doctor

If you experience symptoms such as:

• New pain

• Weight loss

• Blood in the urine

or if you’re concerned about side effects from treatment, contact your doctor promptly.