Kidney Cancer Symptoms

What is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of kidney cells, which can eventually spread to surrounding tissues or other organs. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma. It typically occurs in individuals over the age of 40 and is more common in men than in women.

Causes of Kidney Cancer

Although the exact cause of kidney cancer is not fully understood, several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing the disease:

• Smoking: One of the most significant risk factors.
• Obesity: Can increase the risk by disrupting hormonal balance.
• High blood pressure: Chronic hypertension can negatively affect kidney health.
• Family history: The risk increases if there is a family history of kidney cancer.
• Exposure to certain chemicals: Especially important for industrial workers.
• Long-term dialysis treatment: Patients undergoing dialysis for kidney disease are at higher risk.

Common Symptoms of Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer often does not present symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, certain signs may appear. Since these symptoms can be confused with other conditions, it’s important to consult a urologist if any suspicious signs arise.

1. Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)
   The most common symptom. Blood may be visible to the naked eye or detected only through a urine test. Bleeding is usually painless and may start and stop intermittently.
2. Flank and Back Pain
   A dull and persistent pain may occur on one side of the lower back, where the kidneys are located. The pain may be more noticeable in the mornings or at night and does not go away with rest.
3. Abdominal Mass
   A hard lump felt on the side of the abdomen or in the back may indicate advanced kidney cancer. Often discovered incidentally during an exam or imaging test.
4. Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite
   Unexplained weight loss and decreased appetite are common in many types of cancer, including kidney cancer. Patients may lose a significant amount of weight within a few months.
5. Fatigue and Weakness
   Constant tiredness, easy exhaustion, and a general feeling of weakness are systemic effects of cancer on the body.
6. Night Sweats and Fever
   Persistent fever and night sweats may be immune responses. Although often mistaken for infections, they can also be symptoms of cancer.
7. Anemia (Low Red Blood Cell Count)
   Kidney tumors can affect red blood cell production, leading to anemia, which causes pallor, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
8. High Blood Pressure
   Impaired kidney function can lead to elevated blood pressure. Resistant hypertension may be a sign of an underlying kidney tumor.
9. Swelling in the Legs (Edema)
   Kidney cancer can impact the vascular system, causing swelling, especially in one leg.

How is Kidney Cancer Diagnosed?

Since it may not cause symptoms in early stages, kidney cancer is often detected incidentally through imaging methods such as ultrasound, CT (Computed Tomography), or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). In suspicious cases, a urologist will perform further evaluations.

• Urinalysis: Checks for hidden blood in the urine.
• Blood Tests: Assess kidney function and check for anemia.
• Imaging: The most important diagnostic tool.
• Biopsy: In some cases, a sample is taken from the tumor for pathological examination.

Why is Early Diagnosis Important in Kidney Cancer?

When detected early, kidney cancer is a highly treatable disease. With early diagnosis, the tumor can be completely removed through surgery, preventing its spread. In late-stage cases, cancer may spread to lymph nodes, lungs, or bones, making treatment more difficult.

How is Kidney Cancer Treated?

Treatment is planned based on the stage of the tumor, the patient’s general health, and age.

1. Surgical Treatment
   The most common approach in early stages. There are two main surgical options:
   • Radical Nephrectomy: Removal of the entire kidney.
   • Partial Nephrectomy: Removal of only the tumor-affected portion of the kidney, preferred for small tumors.
2. Laparoscopic or Robotic Surgery
   These minimally invasive methods reduce recovery time and increase patient comfort.
3. Drug Therapies
   In advanced cases, instead of chemotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapies are commonly used.

How to Reduce the Risk of Kidney Cancer

Although kidney cancer cannot be entirely prevented, the following measures can reduce the risk:

• Quit smoking
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Reduce salt intake
• Monitor blood pressure regularly
• Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals
• Do not neglect regular health check-ups

Conclusion: Don’t Ignore the Symptoms

Kidney cancer is a disease that can be successfully treated when diagnosed early. If you experience symptoms such as blood in urine, lower back pain, or unexplained weight loss, it is essential to consult a urologist without delay. Early detection saves lives.