Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC), is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, responsible for filtering blood and producing urine. Kidney cancer is one of the ten most common cancers in both men and women.

Types of Bladder Cancer:

• Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): The most common type, accounting for about 85% of kidney cancer cases. It begins in the lining of the small tubes in the kidney.
• Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC): Also known as urothelial carcinoma, this type starts in the renal pelvis, where the kidney meets the ureter.
• Wilms Tumor: A rare type of kidney cancer that primarily affects children.
• Sarcoma: Rare cancers that originate in the connective tissues of the kidney.
• Renal Medullary Carcinoma: A rare and aggressive form typically seen in young adults, often associated with sickle cell trait.

Risk Factors:

• Smoking: Increases the risk of developing kidney cancer.
• Obesity: Excess body weight is linked to a higher risk of kidney cancer.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure can increase the risk.
• Family History: A family history of kidney cancer can increase susceptibility.
• Genetic Conditions: Conditions such as von Hippel-Lindau disease and hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma.
• Chronic Kidney Disease: Long-term dialysis and kidney disease can increase the risk.
• Occupational Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as asbestos and cadmium.

Symptoms:

• Hematuria: Blood in the urine, which may be pink, red, or cola-colored.
• Flank Pain: Pain in the side or lower back.
• A Mass in the Abdomen: A palpable lump or mass.
• Weight Loss: Unintended weight loss.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or fatigue.
• Fever: Unexplained and recurrent fevers.
• Anemia: Low red blood cell count, leading to fatigue and pallor.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure.

Staging

• Staging is determined based on the size of the tumor and the extent of spread to lymph nodes or other organs. The stages range from Stage I (localized) to Stage IV (advanced, with distant metastasis).