Kidney cancer is the seventh most common cancer in both men and women worldwide. It occurs when cells in the kidney grow uncontrollably, forming small clusters known as tumors.

The disease can spread to surrounding tissues and organs and eventually, if untreated, to other parts of the body.

Treatment Approaches

Kidney cancer treatment usually involves surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. However, many other treatment approaches have been developed and are widely used, including:.

1. Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to target specific molecules (such as proteins or genes) that are responsible for the growth and spread of cancer cells.

These drugs interfere with specific molecules to halt the growth and spread of cancer cells.

2. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy uses drugs to stimulate the body’s immune system to fight cancer. These drugs target specific proteins that allow cancer cells to evade the immune system.

3. Surgery

Surgery is the most common treatment for kidney cancer. It is usually done to remove the tumor and any surrounding tissue that may have cancer cells. Surgery may also be used to remove the whole kidney.

4. Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells in the body. The radiation can be delivered externally or internally to the cancer cells.

5. Watchful waiting or active surveillance

Watchful waiting, also known as active surveillance, is a type of cancer treatment that involves closely monitoring the cancer with regular check-ups and tests rather than treating it immediately.

6. Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a medical procedure that uses extremely low temperatures to freeze and destroy cancer cells in the body. Cryotherapy is usually used when the tumor is small and located only in the kidney.

7. Ablation

Ablation is a procedure that uses heat or cold to destroy cancer cells in the body. It is a minimally invasive treatment that can be done with the help of imaging technology.

8. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells.

9. Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy is a type of cancer treatment that blocks or removes hormones that stimulate cancer cells to grow.

10. Bone-targeted therapy

Bone-targeted therapy is a type of treatment used to prevent or treat bone complications associated with cancer. Cancer that has spread to the bone can cause pain and weakness.

Conclusion

With numerous options for kidney cancer treatment, patients have a better chance of achieving optimal outcomes.

The most suitable treatment will depend on each patient’s individual circumstances, including the stage and type of cancer they have, the tumor’s size and location, and their overall health and preferences. Working with knowledgeable healthcare providers can help patients navigate their options and choose the most effective treatment approach.