Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, originates in the cells of the kidneys, which are vital organs for blood filtration and waste removal. The most common type of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma, accounting for about 90% of cases. Other less frequent types include transitional cell carcinoma, Wilms' tumour (in children), and renal sarcoma. The average age of diagnosis for kidney cancer is around 64 in males and 67 in females.

Symptoms of kidney cancer can vary, and early stages often present no discernible signs. However, as the cancer progresses, individuals may experience blood in the urine (haematuria), persistent pain in the lower back or side, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and a lump or swelling in the kidney area. Other symptoms might include fever, anaemia, and swelling in the legs or ankles due to fluid retention. These symptoms can also be indicative of other conditions, so it is crucial to seek medical consultation for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

Diagnosing kidney cancer typically involves a combination of imaging tests, blood tests, and sometimes a biopsy. Initially, Dr Deanne may request imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualise the kidneys and identify any abnormal growths or tumours. Blood tests can also be useful in assessing kidney function and looking for indicators that might suggest cancer. In certain cases, if imaging and blood tests indicate the possibility of cancer, a biopsy may be performed, wherein a small sample of kidney tissue is extracted and examined for cancerous cells. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, which is why these diagnostic methods are vital in the detection of kidney cancer.

Treating kidney cancer often requires a multi-faceted approach tailored to the individual's condition and the stage of the disease.

Surgical Options: Surgery is a common treatment for kidney cancer, particularly when the tumour is localised. The primary surgical procedures include partial nephrectomy, where only the tumour is removed, preserving as much of the kidney as possible, and radical nephrectomy, which involves the removal of the entire kidney, along with possibly surrounding tissues and lymph nodes if necessary. Dr Deanne is particularly experienced with both partial and radical nephrectomies.

Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy: Immunotherapy, which leverages the body's immune system to fight cancer, has made significant strides in treating advanced kidney cancer. Agents such as checkpoint inhibitors can help the immune system recognize and combat cancer cells more effectively. Targeted therapy, on the other hand, involves medications that specifically target cancer cell mechanisms, blocking pathways that allow tumour growth. Drugs like tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have shown efficacy in managing kidney cancer.

Ablative Treatments: Ablative treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cryoablation, offer minimally invasive options to destroy cancer cells. RFA uses high-energy radio waves to heat and destroy tumour cells, while cryoablation freezes them. These methods can be suitable for patients who are not candidates for surgery or have smaller tumours.

Radiation Therapy: Although less commonly used for kidney cancer, radiation therapy may be employed in certain scenarios, such as palliating symptoms or treating metastases. It involves targeting high-energy rays at cancer cells to kill them or slow their growth, primarily used when other treatments are unsuitable.

Each treatment modality offers distinct advantages and potential side effects, thus a multidisciplinary approach is often employed to tailor the best possible care for kidney cancer patients. Dr Deanne will discuss these options with you during your appointment.