# Kidney Cancer

  **Table of Contents**

 **Table of Contents** [Overview](#section-overview "Overview") [Signs & Symptoms](#section-886 "Signs & Symptoms") [Causes](#section-891 "Causes") [Risk Factors](#section-896 "Risk Factors") [Prevention](#section-916 "Prevention") [Diagnosis](#section-941 "Diagnosis") [Treatments & Services](#section-956 "Treatments & Services")

## Overview

Kidney cancer begins in the kidneys, two bean-shaped organs located behind the abdomen that filter waste from the blood and produce urine. Each kidney connects to the bladder through a ureter, helping regulate fluid balance, minerals, and blood pressure.

The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Less common forms include transitional cell carcinoma and Wilms' tumor, which occurs primarily in children. Advances in imaging technology, such as CT scans, have led to earlier detection, when kidney cancers are often smaller and easier to treat.

## Signs & Symptoms

Kidney cancer often causes no symptoms in its early stages. As the disease grows, symptoms may begin to appear and can vary from person to person. Common signs and symptoms may include:

- Blood in the urine, which may appear pink, red, or cola colored
- Persistent pain in the back or side
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing fatigue
- Fever not caused by an infection

If these symptoms persist or change over time, it's important to speak with your doctor for evaluation.

## Causes

The exact cause of most kidney cancers is not known. Kidney cancer begins when cells in the kidney develop changes in their DNA that cause them to grow and divide uncontrollably. Over time, these abnormal cells can form a tumor that may grow beyond the kidney or spread to other parts of the body.

## Risk Factors

While the exact cause of kidney cancer is unclear, several factors can increase risk. Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop the disease, but awareness can support early monitoring and prevention.

- **Older age:** Risk increases with age, especially after 60.
- **Smoking:** Smoking raises the risk of kidney cancer, and the risk decreases after quitting.
- **Obesity:** Excess body weight is linked to a higher risk of developing kidney cancer.
- **High blood pressure:** Hypertension is associated with an increased risk, even when treated.
- **Kidney failure and long-term dialysis:** Individuals receiving dialysis for chronic kidney disease have a higher risk.
- **Inherited genetic syndromes:** Conditions such as von Hippel-Lindau disease, Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma, and tuberous sclerosis complex increase risk.
- **Family history:** Having a first-degree relative with kidney cancer may raise your chances of developing the disease.
- **Exposure to certain workplace materials:** Long-term exposure to substances like cadmium, asbestos, or trichloroethylene has been linked to increased risk.

## Prevention

While kidney cancer cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle habits can help lower your risk. Focusing on overall wellness supports kidney health and may reduce the likelihood of developing the disease.

#####  Quit smoking

Stopping tobacco use reduces kidney cancer risk over time. Talk with your doctor about medications, counseling, or cessation programs that can help.

#####  Maintain a healthy weight

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through balanced eating and regular physical activity may lower risk.

#####  Manage high blood pressure

Controlling hypertension with lifestyle changes or medication can support kidney health and reduce risk.

## Diagnosis

Diagnosing kidney cancer usually involves a combination of lab tests and imaging studies to understand the cause of symptoms and evaluate the kidneys. Your care team may use several tools to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the disease.

#####  Blood and Urine Tests

Lab tests can help identify abnormalities that may suggest a kidney problem, such as anemia, changes in kidney function, or blood in the urine.

#####  Imaging Test

Ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, or other imaging studies create detailed pictures of the kidneys and can show a mass, its size, and whether it may be cancerous.

#####  Biopsy

In select cases, a small sample of kidney tissue may be removed and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy is not always required for kidney cancer.

#####  Staging

If cancer is found, additional imaging tests may be used to determine its stage. Staging describes how large the tumor is and whether it has spread beyond the kidney. Stages range from I to IV, with higher stages indicating more advanced disease.

## Treatments & Services

 Treatment Options

Treatment for kidney cancer depends on the tumor’s size, stage, and location, as well as your overall health. Options are designed to remove or control the cancer while protecting kidney function whenever possible.

[Immunotherapy](/all-treatments-services/immunotherapy)

  Services Options

Supportive care services help patients manage symptoms, navigate treatment, and maintain quality of life throughout their care journey.

[Medical Oncology](/all-treatments-services/medical-oncology)