Kidney cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the kidney. The most common type of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma, which accounts for about 85% of all kidney cancer cases, according to the American Cancer Society.
Kidney cancer is usually detected through tests done for other reasons, such as an ultrasound or CT scan. Like all cancers, early detection is important for successful treatment.
Signs of Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer often does not cause any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. The first signs of kidney cancer may be mistaken for other conditions, such as urinary tract infections or kidney stones.
However, some people may experience the following symptoms:.
Blood in the urine
Blood in the urine, known as hematuria, is a common symptom of kidney cancer. The urine may appear pink, red, or brown. However, blood in the urine can also be a sign of other conditions, so it is important to get it checked out by a doctor.
Lump or mass in the abdomen
A lump or mass in the abdominal area, which may indicate a tumor in the kidney, may be felt by a doctor during an examination or found during imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI.
Pain in the side or lower back
Pain in the side or lower back that does not go away may be a sign of kidney cancer. However, this symptom can also be caused by other conditions such as a muscle strain or back injury. It is important to see a doctor if you experience persistent pain.
Unintentional weight loss
Unintentional weight loss may be a sign of kidney cancer as the cancer cells use up a lot of energy in the body. However, weight loss can also be a sign of other medical conditions or stress, so it is important to get it checked out by a doctor.
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Be Aware of Kidney Cancer Symptoms
Fever
A fever of 100.4°F or higher that does not go away may be a sign of kidney cancer. However, it is important to remember that fever can also be a sign of infection or other illnesses and not necessarily kidney cancer.
Other Signs and Symptoms
Other signs and symptoms of kidney cancer include:.
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- High blood pressure
- Anemia
- Sudden appearance of varicocele, a lump in the scrotum
When to see a doctor
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. While these symptoms can be a sign of kidney cancer, they can also be caused by other medical conditions.
Only a doctor can diagnosis the underlying cause of the symptoms. If you are at a high risk for kidney cancer, such as having a family history of kidney cancer, you should discuss screening options with your doctor.
Risk Factors for Kidney Cancer
While the exact cause of kidney cancer is unknown, there are certain factors that may increase a person’s risk of developing the disease:.
- Age: Kidney cancer is more common in people over age 60.
- Gender: Men are at a slightly higher risk for kidney cancer than women.
- Race: African Americans and American Indian/Alaska Natives have a higher incidence of kidney cancer compared to other racial groups.
- Smoking: Cigarette smoking is a significant risk factor for kidney cancer.
- Obesity: Obesity is associated with an increased risk for kidney cancer.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure is a risk factor for kidney cancer.
- Familial factors: People with a family history of kidney cancer are at an increased risk for developing the disease.
Conclusion
Kidney cancer is a serious condition and should not be ignored. Early detection is key to a successful outcome. If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Remember, while these symptoms can be a sign of kidney cancer, they can also be caused by other medical conditions. Your doctor can diagnosis the underlying cause of the symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.
