A Complete Guide To Kidney Cancer: Symptoms, Stages, and Treatment
Kidney cancer has been on the rise in India, with approximately 17,480 new cases recorded in India in 2023 alone. What sets this apart is its spread among younger individuals, which makes it a significant cause of concern.
But how to stay vigilant? Understanding kidney cancer's various stages, symptoms, causes, and available treatments can help you take steps towards early detection and prevention. This blog walks you through that and several other things to keep in mind. So, read on!
Does kidney cancer spread quickly?
When cells in the kidneys start to grow uncontrollably, they can form tumours, leading to kidney cancer.
Renal cell carcinoma, the most common type of kidney cancer, can spread to nearby organs and distant parts of the body if not detected and treated early. Early-stage cancer tends to grow more slowly and is often confined to the kidney, while advanced stages can spread more rapidly.
What are the first symptoms of kidney cancer?
Identifying cancer symptoms early can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Common symptoms include:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Persistent pain in the side or back
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever that isn’t caused by an infection
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- Loss of appetite
It's essential to note that symptoms can vary between individuals, and some may not experience noticeable symptoms until the cancer has advanced.
What symptoms of kidney cancer do women experience?
Though not a common cancer among women, kidney cancer can often go unnoticed. Signs include:
- Abnormal menstrual cycles
- Increased frequency of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
Females should be particularly vigilant if they notice these symptoms and seek medical consultation promptly.
What are the main causes of kidney cancer?
Understanding the causes can help in cancer prevention and early detection. Common risk factors include:
- Smoking: Significantly increases the risk. Smokers are about twice as likely to develop kidney cancer as non-smokers.
- Obesity: Excess weight can lead to hormonal imbalances that may promote cancer growth. A higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with a higher risk.
- High Blood Pressure: Hypertension is linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer. Medications used to control blood pressure might also contribute to the risk.
- Family History: Genetic predisposition plays a significant role. Being aware of a family history of kidney cancer can increase your understanding and vigilance, especially if a close relative has had the disease.
- Workplace Exposures: Contact with certain chemicals, such as trichloroethylene (a solvent used in the metal-degreasing industry), can increase the risk of kidney cancer. Workers in such environments should follow safety protocols to minimise exposure.
Genetic Factors
Certain genetic conditions, such as Von Hippel-Lindau disease, can predispose individuals to kidney cancer. Regular screenings are recommended for those with a family history of kidney cancer.
How fast does kidney cancer spread?
Kidney cancer is classified into stages based on its size and extent of spread. Understanding the kidney cancer stages can help in grasping the severity and planning appropriate treatment.
Stage I
- Tumor size: Up to 7 cm
- Location: Confined to the kidney
- Prognosis: Generally good with appropriate treatment
Stage II
- Tumor size: Larger than 7 cm
- Location: Still confined to the kidney
- Prognosis: Slightly lower than Stage I but still treatable
Stage III
- Tumor size: Any size
- Spread: Involves major blood vessels or nearby lymph nodes
- Prognosis: Requires more aggressive treatment
Stage 4
- Tumor size: Any size
- Spread: To multiple lymph nodes, other organs, or distant parts of the body.
- Advanced kidney cancer can present with severe back pain, noticeable blood in urine, fatigue, weight loss, and fever. If you experience these symptoms, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
- Prognosis: In advanced kidney cancer, the prognosis is generally poorer compared to earlier stages, meaning the expected outcome is less favourable.
How painful is kidney cancer?
Kidney cancer pain can vary in intensity and location, depending on the progression of the disease.
1. Localised Pain: Kidney cancer can cause significant pain in the back or side, often described as a persistent, dull ache or sharp pain that can be severe and disabling.
2. Tumour Pressure: As the tumour grows, it may exert pressure on surrounding tissues and nerves, leading to increased discomfort and pain.
3. Metastasis-Related Pain: If the cancer spreads to other organs or bones, it can cause additional pain in those areas, which may be intense and challenging to manage.
4. Procedural Pain: Diagnostic procedures, surgeries, and certain treatments can cause temporary pain, contributing to patients' overall discomfort.
5. Chronic Discomfort: Even without intense acute pain, many patients experience chronic discomfort, fatigue, and a general sense of malaise, which can affect their quality of life.
Can kidney cancer be cut out?
Yes, kidney cancer can often be surgically removed, especially if detected early. Surgical options include partial nephrectomy, which removes only the tumour and a small margin of healthy tissue, and radical nephrectomy, which removes the entire affected kidney. The choice of surgery depends on the size, location, and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.
What are the treatment options for kidney cancer?
Treatment for kidney cancer depends on the stage and overall health of the patient. Here are the primary kidney cancer treatment methods:
1. Surgery
- Partial Nephrectomy: Removal of the tumour and a small margin of healthy tissue.
- Radical Nephrectomy: Complete removal of the affected kidney, sometimes along with surrounding tissues and lymph nodes.
2. Targeted Therapy
Uses drugs to target specific pathways or proteins that cancer cells use to grow. This therapy aims to minimise damage to healthy cells.
3. Immunotherapy
Boosts the body's natural defences to fight cancer. Drugs used in immunotherapy help enhance the immune system's ability to identify and destroy cancer cells.
4. Radiation Therapy
Utilises high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It’s often used when surgery isn’t an option or to relieve symptoms in advanced cancer cases.
5. Chemotherapy
Although less commonly used for kidney cancer, chemotherapy may be recommended in certain cases, especially if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
How long can you live with kidney cancer?
The survival rate for kidney cancer varies widely depending on the stage at diagnosis; early-stage kidney cancer has a five-year survival rate of over 90%, while advanced stages significantly lower the prognosis. Here are some things to consider:
Mental Health and Well-being
Maintaining mental health is as important as physical health. Seek counselling or therapy if needed and stay connected with loved ones for emotional support.
Diet and Exercise
Adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise routine can help improve overall well-being and help manage the side effects of cancer treatment.
Precaution is the key
Early detection and proactive management can make a significant difference in outcomes. Stay vigilant, seek medical advice if you notice any symptoms, and adopt a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk.
References
- https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/7501/kidney-cancer
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/kidney-cancer#:~:text=Renal%20is%20the%20Latin%20word,is%20called%20renal%20cell%20cancer.
- https://www.cancer.gov/types/kidney
- https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/kidney/basic_info/index.htm
Note: The information provided in this blog is intended for general knowledge. It is important to remember that it should not replace professional medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health or kidney cancer-related symptoms, please consult a healthcare provider.
