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Kidney Cancer
Urgent
Kidney cancer is a cancer that begins in the kidneys, usually in the cells lining the small tubes that filter blood and produce urine. Early kidney cancer may cause no symptoms. As it grows, it can cause blood in the urine, persistent pain in the side or back, a lump, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or other changes in health.
Body System
Kidneys & Urinary Tract
When to Seek Medical Attention
Kidney cancer requires prompt medical evaluation for persistent blood in the urine, unexplained weight loss, persistent flank or abdominal pain, a mass, fever without an apparent cause, or worsening symptoms. Emergency care is needed for heavy bleeding, severe pain, fainting, severe weakness, or sudden deterioration.
Symptoms
4
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Kidney cancer is a cancer that begins in the kidneys, usually in the cells lining the small tubes that filter blood and produce urine. Early kidney cancer may cause no symptoms. As it grows, it can cause blood in the urine, persistent pain in the side or back, a lump, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or other changes in health.
Symptoms 4
Cloudy Urine
Persistent Hoarseness
Urinary Retention
Weight Loss
Causes 1
The exact cause of kidney cancer is not always known. Cancer develops when abnormal kidney cells acquire changes that allow them to grow and divide uncontrollably. Factors associated with increased risk include tobacco exposure, obesity, high blood pressure, long-term dialysis, certain inherited conditions, family history, and some long-term medication exposures.
Smoking
Risk Factors
Risk factors for kidney cancer include smoking, excess body weight, high blood pressure, long-term dialysis, a family history of kidney cancer, and certain inherited disorders such as von Hippel-Lindau syndrome. Risk generally increases with age. Some long-term medication exposures and certain kidney conditions may also increase risk.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Kidney cancer is evaluated using the medical history, physical examination, and tests such as blood and urine studies and imaging. Ultrasound, CT, or MRI can help identify a kidney mass and assess its location and extent. A biopsy may be performed in selected cases when tissue confirmation is needed. Additional imaging may be used to look for spread.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
There is no guaranteed way to prevent kidney cancer because some risk factors cannot be changed
Avoiding tobacco use is an important preventive measure
Maintaining a healthy body weight, managing blood pressure, and following appropriate medical care for kidney disease may also reduce risk
People with a strong family history or inherited risk may benefit from medical assessment and appropriate surveillance
Prevention Guidance
There is no guaranteed way to prevent kidney cancer because some risk factors cannot be changed. Avoiding tobacco use is an important preventive measure. Maintaining a healthy body weight, managing blood pressure, and following appropriate medical care for kidney disease may also reduce risk. People with a strong family history or inherited risk may benefit from medical assessment and appropriate surveillance.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Fresh Fruits
Provide antioxidants and vitamins.
Vegetables
Support overall health.
Whole Grains
Provide fiber and nutrition.
Lean Protein
Supports recovery.
Foods to Avoid
Processed Meat
May increase health risks.
Alcohol
May negatively affect recovery.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Kidney cancer develops from kidney tissue.
Blood in urine, flank pain, and weight loss may occur.
Smokers and obese individuals have increased risk.
CT scan, MRI, and biopsy may be used.
Yes, surgery and targeted therapies are available.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.