Kidney Cancer Disease Information

About Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is a malady that begins in the cells of the kidneys. It is also termed renal cancer. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs situated on either side of the spine in the lower back. They are responsible for filtering waste and surplus fluid from the blood, as well as producing hormones that aid in controlling blood pressure, making red blood cells, and helping with bone health. Kidney cancer can affect both adults and children, but it is more common in adults. Approximately 64,000 individuals in the United States are diagnosed with kidney cancer each year. The risk of developing kidney cancer increases with age, and it is more usual in males than females. The exact source of kidney cancer is unknown, but certain factors can raise the risk, including smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and exposure to certain chemicals. Symptoms of kidney cancer may include blood in the urine, pain in the side or lower back, and a lump or mass in the abdomen. Diagnosis of kidney cancer usually involves imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI, and a biopsy of the tumor. Treatment for kidney cancer may include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy. The prognosis for kidney cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and other factors. Early identification and treatment of kidney cancer can help increase the chances of a successful result. It is important to talk to your doctor if you have any of the symptoms of kidney cancer or any other worries.

Types Of Kidney Cancer

  1. Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)
  2. Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC)
  3. Wilms Tumor
  4. Renal Sarcoma
  5. Renal Medullary Carcinoma
  6. Collecting Duct Carcinoma
  7. Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma
  8. Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma
  9. Clear Cell Sarcoma of the Kidney
  10. Multilocular Cystic Renal Cell Carcinoma

Symptoms Of Kidney Cancer

  1. Blood in the urine (hematuria)
  2. Pain in the side or lower back
  3. A lump or mass in the abdomen
  4. Unexplained weight loss
  5. Loss of appetite
  6. Fatigue
  7. Anemia
  8. Swelling in the ankles or feet
  9. Fever
  10. Night sweats
  11. Difficulty urinating
  12. Nausea and vomiting
  13. Abdominal pain or discomfort
  14. Persistent urinary tract infections

Diagnoses Of Kidney Cancer

Imaging tests: Sonography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, angiogram Blood tests: Comprehensive blood count, blood chemistry assessments, tumor marker assessments Biopsy: Kidney tissue biopsy, urine cytology examination Urinalysis: Urine examination to detect blood or other irregular materials in the urine

What Kidney Cancer Causes

Kidney cancer typically results from a change in the cells of the kidney. These transformations can be caused by various causes, including inherited genetic alterations, smoking, and contact with certain chemicals.

How Kidney Cancer Is Treated

Kidney cancer is commonly treated with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted medication, or immunotherapy. Surgery is typically the primary method of treatment, which involves removing the entire or part of the affected kidney. During radiation therapy, high-energy beams are utilized to eliminate cancer cells and reduce tumors. Chemotherapy is a type of drug treatment that involves the use of drugs to eradicate cancer cells. Targeted therapy is a drug treatment that uses drugs to inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells. Immunotherapy is a drug treatment that involves the use of drugs to reinforce the body's natural defenses to battle cancer.

How To Live With Kidney Cancer And Self-help

  1. Stay informed: Keep abreast of the most recent medical information and treatments for kidney cancer. You can do this by conversing with your healthcare team, reading medical journals, and attending support groups.
  2. Eat a healthy diet: Consume a diet that is low in fat, high in fiber, and abundant in fruits and vegetables may help decrease your risk of developing kidney cancer.
  3. Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help reduce stress, lift your spirits, and improve your overall health.
  4. Get enough rest: Make sure to get enough sleep every night. This can help your body heal and fight off any infection.
  5. Stay positive: Try to remain positive and focus on the things that make you happy. This can help you cope with the stress and anxiety of living with kidney cancer.
  6. Connect with others: Interacting with other people who have kidney cancer can be a great source of support. You can join a support group or find an online community.
  7. Take care of yourself: Make sure to take care of yourself by getting regular checkups and following your doctor’s advice.

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