Cancer of Kidney- A serious condition that affects thousands of individuals globally. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and looking into treatment options are crucial for someone who has been diagnosed with kidney cancer and wants to get rid of it.

Causes of Kidney Cancer

Renal tubules, the most common type of kidney cancer, have tiny tubes that make up the frequently experienced genetic abnormalities that lead to kidney cancer development. These alterations may lead to the cells’ unchecked growth and the development of a tumour. Although the precise source of these genetic changes is frequently unknown, a number of contributing variables and risk factors have been found:

1. Smoking
   The most common factor to attract kidney cancer is smoking and consuming tobacco. The usage of tobacco products increases the probability of getting kidney cancer as it releases poisonous chemicals into the body that can eventually harm the kidneys. Cigarette smoke can enter the circulation, build up in the kidneys, and eventually cause the growth of injurious cells. This risk can be considerably decreased by giving up smoking.
2. Obesity
   Kidney cancer is more likely to strike those who are overweight or obese. The development of cancer may be aided by hormonal changes and inflammation brought on by excess fat. It is one significant risk factor for kidney cancer. Obese or overweight people frequently produce more of a number of hormones and growth factors, which can promote the development of kidney cancer cells. Diet and exercise are essential in maintaining a healthy weight to lower this risk.
3. Hypertension
   Chronic high blood pressure, sometimes referred to as hypertension, can place additional strain on the kidney’s blood arteries. This elevated pressure may harm the kidneys over time and raise the risk of kidney cancer. This risk can be reduced by controlling blood pressure by dietary modifications and medication.
4. Genetic Factors
   The risk of kidney cancer is influenced by family history. People who have a family history of kidney cancer may inherit congenital abnormalities that make them more susceptible to the condition. Furthermore, certain hereditary diseases like Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL Syndrome) disease raise the risk of kidney cancer.
5. Environment of Workplace
   Some workplace settings expose people to toxins and carcinogens that may raise the risk of kidney cancer. There may be a more significant risk for workers in sectors including petroleum, plastics manufacturing, and asbestos-related employment. Exposure can be decreased by taking the proper safety measures and wearing protective gear.
6. Age and Gender
   Age and gender also play a role in defining the causes of cancer of the kidney. It is more common in males than in women, and risk tends to rise with age. People over 45 are most frequently diagnosed with kidney cancer.
7. Dialysis and Kidney Disease
   Those who have undergone dialysis or have a history of certain kidney conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease, are at a higher risk of getting kidney cancer. Early identification of these illnesses requires routine medical monitoring and check-ups.
8. Medication
   Long-term use of several drugs, such as painkillers, has been linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer. It’s critical to utilise drugs as directed and to go through any dangers with your healthcare professional.

Symptoms of Kidney Cancer

When the cancer cells develop in our body, it reflects the noticeable symptoms. It is crucial to recognise the signs early to protect your kidneys from deteriorating. Here are a few of the most common symptoms stated by the specialists of kidney cancer –

1. Blood in Urine (Haematuria): One of the hallmark symptoms of kidney cancer is haematuria or blood in the urine. It may appear pink, red, or brown and can be intermittent.
2. Lower Back Pain or Side Pain: Persistent pain or discomfort in the lower back or the sides, where the kidneys are located, may indicate kidney cancer. This pain may be dull and aching or sharp.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss: Unintended weight loss without diet or physical activity changes can be a concerning sign. Kidney cancer can affect your metabolism and lead to weight loss.
4. Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling consistently tired or weak, even with enough rest, can be a symptom of kidney cancer. The disease can disrupt normal bodily functions and energy levels.
5. Fever and Night Sweats: Some individuals with kidney cancer may experience fever and night sweats. These symptoms are often related to the body’s immune response to the tumour.
6. Loss of Appetite: A persistent loss of appetite can be associated with kidney cancer. It may lead to decreased food intake and subsequent weight loss.
7. Swelling in the Legs and Ankles (Edema): Kidney cancer can disrupt the balance of fluids in the body, leading to swelling, especially in the legs and ankles.
8. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Kidney tumours can press on blood vessels, causing an increase in blood pressure. If you have unexplained hypertension, it’s worth investigating further.
9. Anaemia: Kidney cancer can lead to anaemia due to bleeding in the urinary tract or the production of abnormal red blood cells. Anaemia may result in fatigue and weakness.
10. Palpable Mass or Lump: A palpable mass or lump in the abdomen or side can sometimes be felt. However, this is less common and often occurs in more advanced stages of the disease.
11. Flank Pain and Abdominal Mass: Kidney tumours can become large enough to cause noticeable abdominal swelling or a palpable mass in advanced stages. This is an alarming sign and requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of Kidney Cancer

A sequence of diagnostic procedures, including imaging scans, blood tests, and a biopsy, will be carried out if kidney cancer is suspected. The extent of the tumour is determined by staging it after a diagnosis. Prognosis and treatment choices are guided by staging.

Treatment of Kidney Cancer

The course of treatment for kidney cancer is determined by the disease’s stage, general health, and personal preferences. Options for treatment include

Surgical Intervention

Partial Nephrectomy:

1. • 1. Partially removing the kidney’s healthy tissue and just the tumour is known as a partial nephrectomy. It is frequently chosen when maintaining renal function is critical or for tiny malignancies.

Radical nephrectomy:

1. • 1. The entire afflicted kidney is removed in more extensive tumours or when the malignancy has spread to the nearby tissues. If required, lymph nodes might also be removed.

Therapies

1. Targeted Therapy: Oral drugs, known as targeted treatments, prevent the development of blood vessels that feed cancer cells. They are often applied to stop the spread of advanced kidney cancer instances.
2. Immunotherapy: Immune checkpoint inhibitors help improve the immune system’s response to kidney cancer cells. Promising outcomes have been shown with immunotherapy, particularly in individuals with metastatic kidney cancer.
3. Radiation Therapy: High-energy X-rays or other particles are used in radiation treatment to target and kill cancer cells. It can be used to decrease tumours that cannot be medically removed or to lessen pain or suffering brought on by kidney cancer.
4. Ablation Therapy: Small kidney tumours can be removed using ablation treatments like radiofrequency ablation or cryoablation, which employ extremely cold temperatures. Patients who cannot have surgery can benefit from this method.
5. Combination Therapies: Occasionally, several therapies are used. For instance, surgery may be followed with immunotherapy or targeted treatment to avoid a cancer recurrence.
   

Conclusion

Kidney cancer is a complicated condition with a range of origins, symptoms, and therapies. Better results depend on early detection. Seek quick medical assistance if you or a loved one encounter the listed symptoms. Many kidney cancer patients now have better prognoses, giving them hope and the possibility of a better quality of life. Always seek the advice of a healthcare expert for individualised advice and treatment choices suited to your particular circumstance. To avail of the best kidney hospital services in Amritsar, consult Kidney specialists in Amandeep Hospital.