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Conditions

Urology · Cancer care

Kidney cancer

Understand the assessment of an adult kidney tumour, care options and monitoring of kidney function.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

This page covers renal cell carcinoma, the most common kidney cancer in adults. It develops in kidney tissue. Cancers of the renal pelvis or ureter and childhood tumours follow different care pathways.

Possible symptoms

A tumour may be found during a test for another reason, without symptoms. Blood in the urine, persistent side pain, tiredness or unexplained weight loss may occur. These signs also have other causes.

Causes and associated factors

Smoking, obesity and high blood pressure increase risk. Some family histories, inherited syndromes or long-term dialysis also play a part. Having a risk factor does not mean you will develop this cancer.

Diagnosis

Imaging characterises the mass and guides assessment. A biopsy is not always needed before surgery: its usefulness depends on the situation. Examination of tissue obtained by biopsy or during surgery identifies the nature of the tumour.

Tests

CT, often with contrast, assesses the tumour and its extent; MRI may be offered depending on the situation. Blood tests check kidney function among other things. The team tailors tests to your kidneys, medical history and existing results.

Course of the condition

Follow-up after treatment depends on recurrence risk and your health. It checks for cancer returning, monitors kidney function and looks for complications. Appointments and imaging follow an individual schedule.

Care options

Surgery to remove the tumour while keeping part of the kidney, or to remove the whole kidney, may be discussed according to its size, location and your health. For selected small tumours, structured active surveillance or local ablation may be considered. In other situations, particularly when cancer has spread, immunotherapy or targeted therapies may be options. The team discusses benefits, risks and alternatives with you.

When to consult

Seek prompt medical advice for blood in your urine, even once, in a small amount or without pain. Also seek assessment for persistent side pain or unexplained weight loss.

Urgent help

If you cannot urinate or have severe abdominal pain, seek medical help immediately. These signs need urgent assessment, whatever their cause.

Questions for your doctor

  • What do the images show, and would a biopsy help in my case?
  • Can part of the kidney be preserved?
  • What are the benefits and risks of the proposed options?
  • How will my kidney function be monitored?
  • What follow-up is planned, and who should I contact about a new symptom?

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A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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