Kidney Cancer
Overview of Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer develops when cells in the kidney multiply uncontrollably and keep growing unrestrained, resulting in the more frequent variety, renal cell carcinoma (RCC). It may cause loss of function of the kidney and dissemination to other structures or elsewhere in the body in case the cancer is not addressed. Early course is generally asymptomatic, but late presentations include hematuria, pain in the flank, or unexplained loss of desired weight.
Kidney Cancer Types
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)
•The most typical type, occurring in approximately 90% of kidney cancers, RCC arises from the lining of small tubes within the kidney. It can remain local or metastasize to other areas of the body, particularly if not detected early.
Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
•A type of RCC, it consists of cells that appear clear in the microscope. It's a very aggressive form but is known to respond quite effectively to targeted drugs and immunotherapy. It's the most common type and can metastasize if not addressed in time.
Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma
•Second most frequent RCC subtype, characterized by finger-like projections and either type 1 (slow-growing) or type 2 (aggressive). Frequently associated with genetic disorders, potentially found incidentally during imaging for other reasons.
Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma
•This is a rare type that accounts for approximately 5% of RCCs. It grows slowly and has a more favorable prognosis than clear cell RCC. Cells are pale and distinct, and tumors are usually large at the time of diagnosis but have lower chances of metastasis. A very rare and aggressive form, this starts in the kidney ducts that drain urine. It develops rapidly and tends to spread by the time of diagnosis, needing aggressive treatment with a poor outlook.
Unclassified Renal Cell Carcinoma
•Certain tumors don't fall into any particular group and are referred to as unclassified RCC. These tend to be high-grade and more aggressive, requiring a combination of treatments based on the patient's condition and how the tumor is behaving.
Wilms Tumor (Nephroblastoma)
•An abdominal mass that occurs most commonly in children younger than 5 years, Wilms tumor is a childhood kidney cancer. Most are treated with surgery combined with chemotherapy and radiation in some cases, and are very curable with excellent survival rates in the early stages.
Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Renal Pelvis
•Also referred to as urothelial carcinoma, this form begins in the renal pelvis (area of the kidney that leads to the ureter). It is more like bladder cancer and might need to be treated differently from usual RCCs.
Kidney Cancer Symptoms
- •
This is usually the first symptom you'll notice.
- •
Particularly on one side, below the ribs.
- •
Might feel like a hard swelling.
- •
Particularly if it's unexplained and not explained by lifestyle modifications.
- •
Persistent tiredness or lack of energy that isn't relieved by rest.
- •
Particularly recurring or low-grade fevers that don't have an apparent cause.
- •
Usually combined with a sense of fullness or discomfort.
- •
Decreased red blood cell count leading to weakness or shortness of breath.
- •
Because of hormonal or renal function changes.
- •
Also may indicate late-stage disease.
What’s Notable
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) makes up around 85–90% of all kidney cancers.
Surgery is the main treatment for localized kidney cancer and can be curative in early stages.
Men are twice as likely to be diagnosed with kidney cancer as women.
When to Seek Help
Blood in the urine (even once or a small amount), persistent lower back pain on one side (especially below the ribs), a lump or mass in the side or back, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or weakness without cause, fluctuating fever not linked to infections, loss of appetite or feeling full quickly, and swelling of the legs or ankles without other medical reasons are important signs that should prompt medical evaluation.
Kidney Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of kidney cancer, especially renal cell carcinoma, by a very large extent. Cigarette toxins are filtered by the kidneys and gradually destroy them.
Obesity
Excess fat in the body disturbs hormone levels and raises inflammation, which promotes the growth of kidney tumors.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Lifestyle or genetically uncontrolled hypertension is linked to a greater risk of kidney cancer.
Family History
Having a close relative with kidney cancer raises your risk, particularly if associated with inherited syndromes such as von Hippel-Lindau disease or hereditary papillary renal carcinoma.
Occupational Exposures
Recurrent exposure to carcinogenic chemicals like cadmium, asbestos, or trichloroethylene can raise the risk of kidney cancer.
Chronic Kidney Disease & Dialysis
Individuals who have reduced kidney function or are on chronic dialysis have an increased risk for cyst formation or other cellular alterations in the kidneys.
Gender and Age
Men are close to twice as likely to get kidney cancer as women, and the risk accelerates significantly after age 50.
Certain Medications
Long-term use of some pain medicines or diuretics may boost the risk of kidney cancer.
Kidney Cancer Diagnosis
Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Step 1: Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Symptoms such as blood in the urine (hematuria), ongoing back or side pain, unexpected weight loss, or tiredness lead to a doctor or urologist.
Diagnostic Tests
Step 2: Diagnostic Tests Abdominal and pelvis ultrasound or CT scan visualizes abnormalities in kidney shape, size, or masses that are suspicious for cancer.
Confirmatory Diagnosis
Step 3: Confirmatory Diagnosis
A CT-guided biopsy or surgery specimen establishes the presence, type (e.g., clear cell), and grade of kidney cancer on pathology examination.
Staging & Imaging
Step 4: Staging & Imaging
Imaging like chest CT, MRI, or bone scan assists in finding out if the cancer is localized, regionally advanced, or metastatic.
Multidisciplinary Evaluation
Step 5: Multidisciplinary Evaluation
Your case is reviewed by a tumor board to risk-stratify based on tumor size, lymph node status, and metastasis to make the best decisions.
Individualized Treatment Plan
Step 6: Individualized Treatment Plan
Your treatment surgery, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination is tailored to the stage of cancer, your overall health, and your preferences.
Step 1: Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Symptoms such as blood in the urine (hematuria), ongoing back or side pain, unexpected weight loss, or tiredness lead to a doctor or urologist.
Step 2
Diagnostic Tests
Step 3
Confirmatory Diagnosis
Step 4
Staging & Imaging
Step 5
Multidisciplinary Evaluation
Step 6
Individualized Treatment Plan
Recovery
Nutritional Restoration
•Meet with an oncology dietitian to develop a customized, fiber-rich, protein-fortified, and gut-friendly diet to help restore your strength and nutrients.
Bowel Care
•Take control with medications, scheduled meals, and physical therapy to normalize post-surgery or radiation-induced bowel alterations.
Post-Surgical Recovery
•Progressive mobility, pain control, and wound management enable you to return to daily routines safely following procedures such as colectomy or ileostomy.
Psycho-Oncology Support
•Expert guidance assists in overcoming cancer-related fears, anxiety, and depression, along with body image issues or lifestyle changes.
Peer Support
•Participate in facilitated sessions with survivors and caregivers to share experiences, learn from one another, and develop emotional resilience.
Mindfulness & Relaxation
•Add methods such as meditation, journaling, or deep breathing to minimize treatment-related stress and enhance sleep quality.
Stoma Care Advice (if needed)
•Trained stoma specialists provide education and assistance with ostomy bag care, skin protection, and confidence-building after surgery.
Reintegration to Work
•Occupational therapists and social workers assist in a safe workplace return and facilitate workplace accommodations and fatigue management.
Home Modifications
•Establish a gut-friendly environment by organizing meals, fluids, and the availability of toilets to enable your independence and dignity.
Kidney Cancer Types
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)
•The most typical type, occurring in approximately 90% of kidney cancers, RCC arises from the lining of small tubes within the kidney. It can remain local or metastasize to other areas of the body, particularly if not detected early.
Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
•A type of RCC, it consists of cells that appear clear in the microscope. It's a very aggressive form but is known to respond quite effectively to targeted drugs and immunotherapy. It's the most common type and can metastasize if not addressed in time.
Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma
•Second most frequent RCC subtype, characterized by finger-like projections and either type 1 (slow-growing) or type 2 (aggressive). Frequently associated with genetic disorders, potentially found incidentally during imaging for other reasons.
Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma
•This is a rare type that accounts for approximately 5% of RCCs. It grows slowly and has a more favorable prognosis than clear cell RCC. Cells are pale and distinct, and tumors are usually large at the time of diagnosis but have lower chances of metastasis. A very rare and aggressive form, this starts in the kidney ducts that drain urine. It develops rapidly and tends to spread by the time of diagnosis, needing aggressive treatment with a poor outlook.
Unclassified Renal Cell Carcinoma
•Certain tumors don't fall into any particular group and are referred to as unclassified RCC. These tend to be high-grade and more aggressive, requiring a combination of treatments based on the patient's condition and how the tumor is behaving.
Wilms Tumor (Nephroblastoma)
•An abdominal mass that occurs most commonly in children younger than 5 years, Wilms tumor is a childhood kidney cancer. Most are treated with surgery combined with chemotherapy and radiation in some cases, and are very curable with excellent survival rates in the early stages.
Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Renal Pelvis
•Also referred to as urothelial carcinoma, this form begins in the renal pelvis (area of the kidney that leads to the ureter). It is more like bladder cancer and might need to be treated differently from usual RCCs.
Kidney Cancer Symptoms
- •
This is usually the first symptom you'll notice.
- •
Particularly on one side, below the ribs.
- •
Might feel like a hard swelling.
- •
Particularly if it's unexplained and not explained by lifestyle modifications.
- •
Persistent tiredness or lack of energy that isn't relieved by rest.
- •
Particularly recurring or low-grade fevers that don't have an apparent cause.
- •
Usually combined with a sense of fullness or discomfort.
- •
Decreased red blood cell count leading to weakness or shortness of breath.
- •
Because of hormonal or renal function changes.
- •
Also may indicate late-stage disease.
What’s Notable
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) makes up around 85–90% of all kidney cancers.
Surgery is the main treatment for localized kidney cancer and can be curative in early stages.
Men are twice as likely to be diagnosed with kidney cancer as women.
When to Seek Help
Blood in the urine (even once or a small amount), persistent lower back pain on one side (especially below the ribs), a lump or mass in the side or back, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or weakness without cause, fluctuating fever not linked to infections, loss of appetite or feeling full quickly, and swelling of the legs or ankles without other medical reasons are important signs that should prompt medical evaluation.
Kidney Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of kidney cancer, especially renal cell carcinoma, by a very large extent. Cigarette toxins are filtered by the kidneys and gradually destroy them.
Obesity
Excess fat in the body disturbs hormone levels and raises inflammation, which promotes the growth of kidney tumors.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Lifestyle or genetically uncontrolled hypertension is linked to a greater risk of kidney cancer.
Family History
Having a close relative with kidney cancer raises your risk, particularly if associated with inherited syndromes such as von Hippel-Lindau disease or hereditary papillary renal carcinoma.
Occupational Exposures
Recurrent exposure to carcinogenic chemicals like cadmium, asbestos, or trichloroethylene can raise the risk of kidney cancer.
Chronic Kidney Disease & Dialysis
Individuals who have reduced kidney function or are on chronic dialysis have an increased risk for cyst formation or other cellular alterations in the kidneys.
Gender and Age
Men are close to twice as likely to get kidney cancer as women, and the risk accelerates significantly after age 50.
Certain Medications
Long-term use of some pain medicines or diuretics may boost the risk of kidney cancer.
Kidney Cancer Diagnosis
Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Step 1: Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Symptoms such as blood in the urine (hematuria), ongoing back or side pain, unexpected weight loss, or tiredness lead to a doctor or urologist.
Diagnostic Tests
Step 2: Diagnostic Tests Abdominal and pelvis ultrasound or CT scan visualizes abnormalities in kidney shape, size, or masses that are suspicious for cancer.
Confirmatory Diagnosis
Step 3: Confirmatory Diagnosis
A CT-guided biopsy or surgery specimen establishes the presence, type (e.g., clear cell), and grade of kidney cancer on pathology examination.
Staging & Imaging
Step 4: Staging & Imaging
Imaging like chest CT, MRI, or bone scan assists in finding out if the cancer is localized, regionally advanced, or metastatic.
Multidisciplinary Evaluation
Step 5: Multidisciplinary Evaluation
Your case is reviewed by a tumor board to risk-stratify based on tumor size, lymph node status, and metastasis to make the best decisions.
Individualized Treatment Plan
Step 6: Individualized Treatment Plan
Your treatment surgery, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination is tailored to the stage of cancer, your overall health, and your preferences.
Step 1: Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Symptoms such as blood in the urine (hematuria), ongoing back or side pain, unexpected weight loss, or tiredness lead to a doctor or urologist.
Step 2
Diagnostic Tests
Step 3
Confirmatory Diagnosis
Step 4
Staging & Imaging
Step 5
Multidisciplinary Evaluation
Step 6
Individualized Treatment Plan
Recovery
Nutritional Restoration
•Meet with an oncology dietitian to develop a customized, fiber-rich, protein-fortified, and gut-friendly diet to help restore your strength and nutrients.
Bowel Care
•Take control with medications, scheduled meals, and physical therapy to normalize post-surgery or radiation-induced bowel alterations.
Post-Surgical Recovery
•Progressive mobility, pain control, and wound management enable you to return to daily routines safely following procedures such as colectomy or ileostomy.
Psycho-Oncology Support
•Expert guidance assists in overcoming cancer-related fears, anxiety, and depression, along with body image issues or lifestyle changes.
Peer Support
•Participate in facilitated sessions with survivors and caregivers to share experiences, learn from one another, and develop emotional resilience.
Mindfulness & Relaxation
•Add methods such as meditation, journaling, or deep breathing to minimize treatment-related stress and enhance sleep quality.
Stoma Care Advice (if needed)
•Trained stoma specialists provide education and assistance with ostomy bag care, skin protection, and confidence-building after surgery.
Reintegration to Work
•Occupational therapists and social workers assist in a safe workplace return and facilitate workplace accommodations and fatigue management.
Home Modifications
•Establish a gut-friendly environment by organizing meals, fluids, and the availability of toilets to enable your independence and dignity.
At Everhope, our dedicated team supports your journey with advanced care, compassionate guidance, and lasting hope.
New cases annually
Deaths from kidney cancer worldwide.
Cases in India annually.
FAQs on Kidney Cancer
No question is too small when it comes to your care
Blood in the urine (even a small amount), persistent pain in the side or lower back, a lump or swelling, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue are common early symptoms.
Yes, if detected early, kidney cancer can often be treated successfully with surgery, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
If you notice blood in your urine, persistent back or side pain, unexplained weight loss, or any unusual swelling, you should seek medical evaluation promptly.
Risk factors include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and family history, although many cases have no clear cause.
Doctors use imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, alongside urine and blood tests, and sometimes a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Find a Centre Near You
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EBD 65, Sector 65, Golf Course Extension Road, Gurgaon