What Is Kidney Cancer Called?
What Is Kidney Cancer Called? Kidney cancer is also known as renal cancer. It means different cancers start in the kidneys. The most common one is called Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC).
This type makes up most kidney cancer cases. The name “renal cancers” tells us it comes from the kidneys. “Carcinoma” means it begins in certain cells of the organ.
There are many types of kidney cancer, each with its own cells and traits.
Understanding Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is complex and comes in different types. It can affect how the kidneys work and overall health. Knowing about kidney cancer starts with understanding its types.
Knowing about kidney cancer helps in making better treatment plans. Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the most common type. It has many subtypes, each needing its own treatment.
It’s important to know about all kidney cancer types for better treatment. Early detection and understanding kidney cancer can make treatments more effective. This can help patients get better results.
Explaining Renal Cell Carcinoma and its types is key for doctors. It helps them make treatments that work best for each patient. This improves how well patients are cared for.
Renal Cell Carcinoma: The Most Common Type
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the top type of kidney cancer in adults, making up to 85% of all cases. It comes in many types, each with its own traits and behaviors.
Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma is the most common type, making up 70-80% of RCC cases. It gets its name because the cells look clear under a microscope. This is because they have a lot of fat and sugar inside.
Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma
Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma is the second most common type, making up about 10-15% of RCC cases. It has two types:
- Type 1: Has small cells in one layer.
- Type 2: More aggressive with bigger cells and complex shapes.
Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma
Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma is less common but still makes up about 5% of RCC cases. It’s known for its cells that don’t stain well with common dyes. People with this type often have a better chance of recovery.
| RCC Subtype | Proportion | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma | 70-80% | Clear cells due to high lipid and glycogen content |
| Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma | 10-15% |
|
| Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma | 5% | Pale cells, generally better prognosis |
Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
It’s important to know the symptoms of kidney cancer for early detection. Many symptoms are subtle, but knowing the key signs can help. These signs show that you might have renal carcinoma.
Hematuria (Blood in Urine)
Hematuria is a main sign of kidney cancer. It means there’s blood in your urine. This makes doctors look closer because it shows something’s not right with your kidneys.
Hematuria can be easy to see or very small, found only in lab tests.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is another sign of kidney cancer. It usually hurts on one side or in the lower back. If it doesn’t go away, it could mean kidney cancer.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss could mean kidney cancer. It’s also seen with fevers or night sweats. If you lose a lot of weight without a reason, see a doctor right away.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Hematuria | Presence of blood in urine, ranging from visible red or pink to microscopic levels. |
| Abdominal Pain | Persistent and localized pain in the side or lower back area. |
| Unexplained Weight Loss | Significant weight loss without known cause, often accompanied by other systemic symptoms. |
What Is Kidney Cancer Called?
Kidney cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the kidneys. It’s also known as renal malignancy. The names for kidney cancer help doctors understand and treat it better.
Most kidney cancers are called renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This makes up about 90% of all kidney cancer cases. But RCC is not just one type of cancer. It’s a group of cancers with different genes and looks.
- Clear cell renal cell carcinoma
- Papillary renal cell carcinoma
- Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma
Knowing the type of kidney cancer is key for patients and doctors. It helps with making the right treatment choices and finding the right research.
There are other types of kidney cancer too, like transitional cell carcinoma, Wilms’ tumor, and renal sarcoma. Each type is different. Knowing about all these names is important for doctors to treat kidney cancer well.
Kidney Cancer Treatment Options
When looking at Kidney Cancer Treatment Options, doctors tailor the plan to your health and the tumor’s type. Here are the main ways to treat renal cancer:
Surgery
Surgery is a key treatment for kidney cancer. Doctors might do a partial nephrectomy to save part of the kidney. Or they might do a radical nephrectomy to remove the whole kidney if the tumor is big or in the middle.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses special traits of cancer cells. It’s great when cancer has spread to other parts of the body. This treatment blocks ways cancer cells grow and spread.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a big part of fighting advanced kidney cancer. It uses your body’s immune system to find and fight cancer cells. It’s a hope for patients with advanced kidney cancer.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is used for relief or when surgery isn’t an option. It helps stop the tumor from getting bigger and relieves symptoms. This improves life quality for those with kidney cancer.
These Kidney Cancer Treatment Options give a full plan to fight renal cancer. They make sure treatment fits each patient’s needs.
Causes of Kidney Cancer
Understanding kidney cancer starts with looking at what causes it. Many things can lead to it, but we don’t know all of them yet. We do know some risk factors for RCC though.
Key risk factors for RCC include:
- Smoking: Smoking a lot raises your chance of getting kidney cancer.
- Obesity: Being too heavy increases your risk of RCC.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure makes getting renal cancer more likely.
- Genetic predispositions: Some inherited conditions, like von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, raise your risk a lot.
- Exposure to toxins: Being around harmful substances like cadmium and solvents can also play a part.
Knowing these risk factors for RCC helps with prevention and catching it early. Even though we don’t know everything about renal cancer etiology, finding and reducing causes of kidney cancer is key.
| Risk Factor | Implication |
|---|---|
| Smoking | Increases chance of developing kidney cancer |
| Obesity | Strongly associated with RCC |
| Hypertension | Linked to a higher likelihood of renal cancer |
| Genetic predispositions | Inherited conditions like von Hippel-Lindau syndrome heighten the risk |
| Toxin exposure | Environmental and occupational exposure to toxins such as cadmium |
Kidney Cancer Diagnosis
Finding out you have kidney cancer is very important. It helps doctors know how to treat you. They use many ways to make sure they understand your situation well.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests are key in finding kidney cancer. Here are some tests used:
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to make pictures of the kidneys and spot problems.
- CT Scans: Gives detailed pictures of the kidneys and finds tumors.
- MRI: Uses magnetic fields for clear pictures of the kidneys and tumors.
Biopsy
A biopsy is sometimes done when tests don’t give clear results. It takes a tiny piece of kidney tissue for more checks.
Blood Tests
Blood tests help with kidney cancer diagnosis too. They check how well the kidneys work and your overall health. They look for signs of kidney cancer. What Is Called?
Kidney Cancer Awareness and Prevention
It’s important to spread the word about Renal Cancer to help fight it. Teaching people about RCC is key. We need to tell them about risks and early signs, and push for regular check-ups.
Changing our ways can help prevent kidney cancer. Here are some important steps:
- Stop smoking
- Keep a healthy weight
- Stay active
- Eat a balanced diet
For those with a family history, getting genetic advice and tests is crucial. These steps can catch kidney cancer early. Together, these actions and teaching people about RCC can really cut down the risks.
| Preventative Measure | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Smoking Cessation | Reduces risk factors significantly |
| Healthy Weight Maintenance | Decreases overall cancer risk |
| Physical Activity | Improves immune function and reduces inflammation |
| Balanced Diet | Provides essential nutrients and antioxidants |
By doing these things, we aim to make a well-informed public. This will boost Renal Cancer awareness and help prevent kidney cancer.
Support and Resources for Kidney Cancer Patients
Getting a kidney cancer diagnosis can feel like a lot to handle. But, there are many ways to get help. Hospitals have teams that work together to make a plan just for you. They include doctors, surgeons, and people who help guide you through treatment.
These teams make sure you get the best care. They care about your whole well-being, not just your body.
There’s also help for your feelings and mental health. Support groups let you talk to others who know what you’re going through. You can share stories and learn ways to deal with tough times together.
These groups make you feel less alone. They give you hope and a place to belong.
Groups like the Kidney Cancer Association are big helpers too. They offer information, support, and news on new research. They aim to make life better for kidney cancer patients. Getting in touch with these groups can really help you and your family.
FAQ
What is kidney cancer called?
Kidney cancer is also known as renal cancer. It includes many types of cancers in the kidney. The main type is called Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC).
What are the different types of kidney cancer?
Kidney cancer has several types. The main one is Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC). It has subtypes like Clear Cell RCC and Papillary RCC. There's also Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC) and Wilms' tumor, found more in kids.
What are the symptoms of kidney cancer?
Kidney cancer symptoms include blood in your urine and stomach pain. You might also lose weight without trying and feel tired. Other signs are a lump in your belly, fever, night sweats, and ongoing tiredness.
What are the treatment options for kidney cancer?
Treatments for kidney cancer are surgery, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and sometimes radiation. The best treatment depends on the cancer's stage, type, and your health.
What causes kidney cancer?
We don't know all the causes of kidney cancer. But, smoking, being overweight, high blood pressure, and some genes increase the risk. Some people with certain inherited conditions, like von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, are more at risk.
How is kidney cancer diagnosed?
Doctors use tests like ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI to find kidney cancer. They might take a biopsy to check the tissue. Blood tests check your kidney function and health.
What is Renal Cell Carcinoma?
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the most common kidney cancer in adults. It starts in the kidney's lining. RCC has subtypes like Clear Cell RCC and Papillary RCC.
What are the symptoms specific to Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma?
Clear Cell RCC symptoms are like other kidney cancers. They include blood in urine, pain in the side, and a mass you can feel. This type is identified by looking at the cells under a microscope.
How can I increase awareness and prevention of kidney cancer?
Teach others about kidney cancer risks and signs. Encourage regular health checks and healthy living. Quitting smoking and staying at a healthy weight helps prevent it. Genetic counseling is good for those with a family history.
What support and resources are available for kidney cancer patients?
Patients with kidney cancer can find support in hospitals, support groups, and organizations like the Kidney Cancer Association. These offer medical, emotional, and financial help.
