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What Is Renal Cancer?

Renal cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma, is a type of kidney cancer in which tumors develop in the small tubes of the kidneys that filter the blood and move waste.

  1. Symptoms

    • Common symptoms of renal cancer include blood in the urine, back and flank pain, swelling of the abdomen, pain in the abdomen, weight loss and an emaciated appearance. Other general symptoms of the disease may include fever, fatigue and constipation.

    Causes

    • The exact cause of renal cancer is unknown, but it occurs more frequently in males ages 50 to 70. Risk factors for the disease include genetics, smoking, dialysis treatment, high blood pressure, obesity and exposure to asbestos.

    Diagnosis

    • Renal cancer is difficult to diagnose, but tests of the kidneys will be performed if a doctor suspects the presence of the disease. These tests include X-rays, blood and urine tests, ultrasounds and CT scans.

    Treatment

    • Surgery to remove all or part of the affected kidney is the typical treatment for renal cell cancer. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, surgery will not be effective and drug therapy may be administered.

    Prevention

    • Renal cell cancer can be prevented by keeping the body in good health, limiting exposure to cigarette smoke and asbestos, and promptly seeking treatment for any existing kidney disorders.

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