Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC), is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys, the two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, below the ribcage. Kidney cancer is one of the most common types of cancers affecting the urinary system. It typically develops in the lining of small tubes in the kidneys, called renal tubules, responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood to form urine.

Causes and Risk Factors:

The exact cause of kidney cancer is often unclear, but there are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease:

  • Smoking: Tobacco use is a major risk factor for kidney cancer.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight increases the risk.
  • High Blood Pressure: Hypertension is associated with an increased risk.
  • Family History: A family history of kidney cancer or certain genetic conditions can raise the risk.
  • Certain Genetic Conditions: Conditions like von Hippel-Lindau disease or hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma increase susceptibility.
  • Exposure to Certain Chemicals: Occupational exposure to certain chemicals like asbestos, cadmium, and organic solvents may elevate risk.

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Blood in the urine (haematuria)
  • Persistent pain in the side or back
  • A mass that can be felt
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Anaemia
  • Fever not caused by infection

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing kidney cancer often involves a combination of techniques:

  • Imaging Tests: ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI help visualize the kidneys and identify tumours.
  • Biopsy: Sometimes a sample of tissue is taken from the tumour and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
  • Blood Tests: Blood tests can reveal elevated levels of certain substances associated with kidney cancer.

Treatment:

Treatment options depend on the location, stage and extent of the cancer, as well as the individual’s overall health. Common approaches include:

  • Surgery: Removing just the tumour (partial nephrectomy) and sometimes the entire kidney (radical nephrectomy).
  • Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to destroy cancer cells.
  • Immunotherapy or Chemotherapy: In more advanced cases where the tumour has spread beyond the kidney.
  • Ablation Techniques: Where the tumour is frozen or heated to destroy it. Usually reserved for cases where a patient may not be well enough for surger

Early detection and treatment greatly improve the prognosis for kidney cancer. Regular medical check-ups and adopting a healthy lifestyle can contribute to prevention and early detection.