Kidney Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment in Treasure Valley

Kidney cancer is also known as renal cancer. The cancerous cells tend to begin in the tiny tubes of the kidney, which is diagnosed as renal cell carcinoma, hence the name “renal cancer”. Luckily, in most cases, kidney cancer is found before it is able to spread.

Kidney cancer is actually the 6th most common cancer in men, though women are of course also susceptible to this condition. It is estimated that only 4% of all cancer cases are diagnosed to be kidney cancer, however, this particular type of cancer tends to affect a specific demographic, so understanding the risk factors and how they apply to you is very important.

At Idaho Urologic Institute, we provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for kidney cancer in Treasure Valley, offering patients expert care tailored to their individual needs. Our team uses the latest technology, including robotic surgery, to ensure effective treatment with minimal side effects. Call (208) 639-4900 today to schedule a consultation and discuss the best options for your care.

8 Risk Factors of Kidney Cancer

The following characteristics are especially common among patients diagnosed with kidney cancer:
  • Over the age of 50
  • Smoker
  • Male
  • Obese
  • Having advanced kidney disease
  • A family history of kidney cancer
  • High blood pressure
  • African American

Keep in mind that having these risk factors does not mean that any of them will certainly cause kidney cancer on their own, they just increase the person’s chances of developing problems in the kidneys. However, if you can mitigate some of these risk factors, you can greatly reduce your chances of getting kidney cancer. These proactive prevention strategies can include losing weight, quitting smoking, and reducing your blood pressure. Making these alterations to your lifestyle can also reduce your risk for a number of other health concerns, including other cancers.

Symptoms of Renal Cell Carcinoma

It is important to note that these symptoms do not necessarily mean a person does in fact have kidney cancer, but if you are experiencing any of these symptoms and also fit into a few of the risk factors discussed above, consult with a specialist right away about scheduling a screening.

These symptoms are in order of how common they are, with the most common at the top:

  • Blood in the urine
  • Abdominal mass
  • Back or flank pain
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Low blood cell counts (anemia)
  • Symptoms of metastases (secondary malignant growths that begin to grow away from
    the primary site of cancer)
  • Fever
  • High calcium levels in the blood
  • High blood cell counts

Diagnostic Testing for Kidney Cancer

First, Idaho Urologic Institute will conduct a physical exam and discuss with the patient’s medical history and current symptoms with them directly. If our providers feel that further testing is warranted, they will most likely refer the patient to a radiologist to complete a CT scan, PET scan, MRI, or ultrasound. Other exams can also include a biopsy and blood test among a few others. Make sure you discuss your diagnostic options and preferences with our urologists.

CT and MRI exams are typically used to detect the staging of the cancer if it exists. There are 4 primary staging groups of kidney cancer in addition to more specific subcategories that detail how the cancer developed and possibly spread to other areas of the body.

Treatment for Kidney Cancer in Treasure Valley

Most small kidney tumors are discovered incidentally. Some larger tumors are discovered after an evaluation for the above symptoms. You and your urologist will look over the images together and discuss options which may include surveillance, partial nephrectomy, radical nephrectomy and ablation therapy. The size, shape and location of the tumors are factors to determine. Other chronic medical diseases and prior surgeries will also determine treatments offered. Idaho Urologic Institute’s surgeons are trained in robotic, laparoscopic and open surgeries. Each case is very unique, so patients will need to consult with our urologists about all available treatment options and which method will be best for them specifically. If you have more questions about kidney cancer, or believe that you may be at risk, consult with a specialist at Idaho Urologic Institute today by calling (208) 639-4900 to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kidney Cancer

What are the symptoms of kidney cancer?

Kidney cancer may cause blood in the urine, side or back pain, weight loss, fatigue, or fever. Some kidney cancers may not cause symptoms early on.

How is kidney cancer diagnosed?

Doctors may use imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or ultrasound, along with blood tests and other tests when needed.

What are the treatment options for kidney cancer?

Treatment may include active surveillance, ablation, partial nephrectomy, or radical nephrectomy, depending on the tumor and the patient’s overall health.

Can kidney cancer be treated without removing the whole kidney?

Yes. A partial nephrectomy may remove the tumor while preserving healthy kidney tissue when appropriate.

Is robotic surgery an option for kidney cancer?

Robotic assisted surgery may be an option for some kidney tumors and can help surgeons perform the procedure through smaller incisions.

When should I see a urologist for a kidney mass?

A kidney mass found on imaging should be evaluated by a urologist to determine whether it is cancer and whether treatment is needed.

Source:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352664

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This content has been reviewed by the board-certified urologists from Idaho Urologic Institute