Renal cell carcinoma (RCC)

Acute

What is Renal cell carcinoma (RCC)?

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common type of kidney cancer, accounting for about 90% of cases. It originates in the lining of the proximal convoluted tubule, a part of the small tubes in the kidney that transport waste molecules from the blood to the urine.

Renal tumors, also known as kidney cancer, can be a serious health issue. Here's an overview of the key aspects:

Symptoms

Early stages of renal tumors often don't exhibit noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, you may experience :
  • Blood in Urine: Hematuria is a common symptom, which can be visible or microscopic.
  • Pain: Flank pain or discomfort on the side of the affected kidney.
  • Lump or Mass: A firm lump in the abdomen, low back, or flank.
  • Systemic Symptoms: Fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and anemia.

Complaints

Patients with renal tumors may complain of
  • Urinary Issues: Frequent urination, urgent need to urinate, or painful urination.
  • Abdominal Issues: Abdominal pain or discomfort.
  • General Symptoms: Fatigue, loss of appetite, or swelling of ankles and legs.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact causes of renal tumors are unknown, certain factors increase the risk
  • Smoking: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor.
  • Obesity: Higher body mass index (BMI) increases the risk.
  • High Blood Pressure: Hypertension is a known risk factor.
  • Chronic Kidney Disease: Long-term kidney disease or dialysis increases the risk.
  • Genetic Mutations: Certain inherited conditions, such as von Hippel-Lindau disease, increase the risk.
  • Exposure to Carcinogens: Exposure to substances like cadmium, asbestos, or certain dyes.

Prevention

  • Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity.
  • Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight.
  • Avoiding Tobacco: Quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco products.

Diagnosis

  • Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
  • Biopsy: Removing a sample of tissue from the kidney for examination.

Treatment

  • Surgery: Radical nephrectomy (removing the entire kidney) or partial nephrectomy (removing part of the kidney).
  • Ablation Therapy: Destroying cancer cells using heat or cold.
  • Targeted Therapy: Using medications to target specific cancer cells.
  • Immunotherapy: Stimulating the immune system to fight cancer.

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