Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer (renal cancer) occurs when abnormal cells in the kidneys grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on each side of the spine. Their primary function is to filter waste from the blood and produce urine. Kidney cancer may start in different parts of the kidney, with the most common type being Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC).

Types of Kidney Cancer

• Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) - The most common form of kidney cancer.
• Urothelial Carcinoma - Cancer that begins in the urinary tract, sometimes found in the kidney.
• Wilms Tumour - A rare kidney cancer primarily affecting children.
• Other Rare Types - Such as sarcomas or transitional cell carcinomas.

Risk Factors for Developing Kidney Cancer

While the exact cause of kidney cancer is not known, several factors may increase the risk:

• Smoking
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• Family history of kidney cancer
• Long-term dialysis treatment
• Certain genetic conditions (e.g., von Hippel-Lindau disease)

What are the Symptoms of Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages, but as the tumour grows, the following symptoms may occur:

• Blood in the urine (haematuria)
• Pain in the side or back that doesn’t go away
• A lump or mass in the abdomen or side
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Anaemia (low red blood cell count)

Kidney Cancer Diagnosis

If kidney cancer is suspected, a doctor may recommend:

• Physical Examination: Checking for lumps or abnormal areas.
• Imaging Tests:
  • Ultrasound – Used to detect tumours.
  • CT Scan or MRI – To get detailed images of the kidney and surrounding tissues.
• Biopsy - A small tissue sample from the kidney may be taken to confirm if cancer cells are present.

The Stages of Kidney Cancer

• Stage I: Cancer is confined to the kidney.
• Stage II: The tumour is larger but still confined to the kidney.
• Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or veins.
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to local or distant organs, such as the adrenals, lungs or bones.

Why Choose OneWelbeck?

At OneWelbeck, we offer personalised private healthcare, allowing you to access healthcare from specialist consultants, preventing you from having to wait the typical 18 weeks for consultant-led treatments (general NHS treatment times).

Our consultant urologists at OneWelbeck are experts in kidney cancer care, bringing extensive experience to the field. They work with major insurers, enabling you to access treatment through your private health insurance, as well as self-pay options.

It’s important to stay informed and actively participate in your treatment decisions.