Renal Cancer - Causes, Preventive Measures and Treatment

Renal Cancer (RC) is a type of cancer that starts in the kidneys when the bad cells outnumber in the body and multiply in an uncontrolled manner. It is also called kidney cancer. This disease can occur in a population of all ages though it usually manifests itself as renal cell carcinoma in adults and originates in the tiny filter of the kidneys. The most common type of RC in kids is termed ‘Wilms tumour’.

The incidence of RC has been increasing steadily over the years thanks to its accidental discovery through clinical imaging techniques like Computerized Tomography (CT) scans. If discovered at an early stage wherein the tumours are small and largely confined to the kidneys, it is easily treatable by kidney specialist doctors.

There are no clearly visible symptoms in the initial phase of RC. However, in advanced stages, the following renal cancer symptoms may be experienced:

• Presence of blood in the urine making it pink or red in appearance
• Evidence of a growth(lump or bulge) on the sides or the belly area
• Persistent pain in the back or the sides
• Sudden and unexplained weight loss
• Decline in appetite
• Intermittent bouts of fever
• Fatigue

Renal Cancer Risk Factors

• Age - The risk increases with aging.
• Smoking - Smokers having a greater probability of getting this cancer than non-smokers.
• Obesity - People who are overweight are at a higher risk than those who have average weight.
• Hypertension - High blood pressure increases the chances of RC as it inhibits the normal functioning of the kidneys.
• Kidney Failure - Patients who suffer from renal failure and undergo dialysis for a long duration are more prone to RC.
• Specific Inherited Syndrome - Certain syndromes which occur through inheritance including Von Hippel-Lindau disease, Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome and Tuberous Sclerosis complex pose greater risks for this disease.
• Genetic Factors - A pertinent family history of RC can enhance the chances of getting it again.
• Exposure to Toxic Substances - Being continuously exposed to certain harmful substances like herbicides or metals like cadmium can prove dangerous as it can result in kidney cancer.

Causes of RC

Though the exact causes of RC are not clearly evident, research reveals that it originates when there are genetic mutations in the kidney. These mutations result in abnormal growth and division of the cells forming a tumour. This may extend beyond the kidney structure as some cells can get dislodged from the source and move to other body parts. Certain inherited mutations running across various generations of families may also be a probable cause. Sometimes, genetic mutations which occur in the cell during a person’s lifetime (acquired mutations) due to the risk of exposure to tobacco and harmful chemicals may also result in RC.

RC Treatment

RC may be diagnosed by physical examination, urine and blood tests, imaging tests and kidney biopsy. Kidney Cancer Treatment is decided based on the patient condition, risks and possible side-effects that can occur later. Various treatment approaches include:

• Local Treatment - In the less advanced cases, the kidney tumour may be treated locally by various methods like radiation therapy, ablation, surgery or active surveillance.
• Systematic Treatment - This approach involves the use of drugs by oral administration or through bloodstream for reaching cancer cells anywhere in the body. It is done through immunotherapy, chemotherapy or other targeted therapies.
• Palliative Treatment - This option is used when cancer cannot be removed. It can only relieve symptoms like the pain but cannot cure the disease completely.

RC Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Quit the smoking habit through medical intervention, rehabilitation programs or by using nicotine replacement products.
• Maintain a healthy weight through diet and physical activity.
• Control the high blood pressure through medication and lifestyle changes.