Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is also sometimes referred to as renal cancer or renal cell carcinoma. This cancer develops in the tiny tubes of the kidney. In most cases, kidney cancer is diagnosed before it can spread to other parts of the body.
Risk Factors of Kidney Cancer
While anyone can develop kidney cancer, there are some factors that increase your individual risk. Kidney cancer is most commonly diagnosed in patients over the age of 50, and more often seen in men than women. African Americans are also more likely to develop kidney cancer.
Other risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Advanced kidney disease diagnosis
- A family history of kidney cancer
- High blood pressure
Having these risk factors does not mean you will develop kidney cancer, but understanding your risk level can help you take proactive steps to protect your health. Making lifestyle changes like losing weight, quitting smoking, and reducing your blood pressure can all help mitigate your risk.
Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
Common symptoms of kidney cancer include:
- Blood in the urine
- Abdominal mass
- Back or flank pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Low blood cell counts (anemia)
- Symptoms of metastases (secondary malignant growths that begin to grow away from the primary site of cancer)
- Fever
- High calcium levels in the blood
- High blood cell counts
It is important to note that these symptoms do not necessarily mean a person does in fact have kidney cancer, but if you have any concerns, please contact your healthcare provider.
Diagnostic Testing for Kidney Cancer
If your provider suspects you have kidney cancer, a specialist will conduct a physical exam and discuss your medical history and current symptoms with you. If further testing is needed, they will most likely refer you to a radiologist to complete a CT scan, PET scan, MRI, or ultrasound. Other exams can also include a biopsy and blood test. These tests can be used to both diagnose and stage kidney cancer.
Treatment for Kidney Cancer
For most patients who are diagnosed with kidney cancer, robotic surgery is the most effective treatment. The da Vinci® nephrectomy procedure removes cancerous tissue with minimal side effects.
If you have more questions about kidney cancer, or believe that you may be at risk, consult with a specialist at New Jersey Cancer Care, PA today to schedule an appointment.