Kidney Cancer/Renal Cell Carcinoma
Kidney Cancer, also known as Renal Cell Carcinoma, is a type of cancer that originates in the cells of the filter tissue of the kidneys. Kidney cancer occurs when the cells within the kidneys undergo uncontrolled growth and form a tumor. The exact cause of kidney cancer is often unclear, but certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing this condition. These risk factors include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, certain genetic conditions (such as von Hippel-Lindau disease), and exposure to certain chemicals and substances.
Signs/Symptoms: Most often a small tumor is detected when a patient has a CAT scan or ultrasound for reasons other than kidney concerns. In cases where patients has urinary complaints symptoms of kidney cancer can include: blood in the urine (hematuria), pain in the lower back or side, mass or lump in the abdomen, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, anemia (low red blood cell count).
Diagnosis: Diagnosis a kidney cancer typically involves imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds to visualize the tumor and assess its characteristics
Treatment: Treatment options for kidney cancer depend on factors such as the stage of the disease, the size and location of the tumor, and the patient's overall health. Treatment approaches may include surgery to remove the tumor (partial or complete nephrectomy), targeted therapy such as cryotherapy and in some cases, chemotherapy
Radical Nephrectomy
A radical nephrectomy removes the entire kidney along with its surrounding fat and possibly other tissues, such as the adrenal gland, nearby lymph nodes, and ureter. It is often performed as a treatment for kidney cancer, particularly when the cancer is localized to the kidney and has not spread to other parts of the body. A radical nephrectomy is chosen when a partial nephrectomy is not feasible. It may also be considered for certain cases of advanced kidney cancer.
A radical nephrectomy is most often performed robotically, with the assistance of a robotic system controlled by the surgeon. If the tumor is very large or if a patient has complicating factors that limit our ability to do a robotic approach then a larger incision can be made to perform the procedure.
Like any surgical procedure, radical nephrectomy carries risks, including bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding organs, and complications related to anesthesia. Long-term complications may include decreased kidney function, which can sometimes lead to the need for dialysis.
Partial Nephrectomy
A partial nephrectomy removes the tumor from the rest of the kidney. This type of surgery is most commonly done robotically, but a larger incision can be employed depending on the clinical situation.
Advanced Kidney Cancer
Advanced kidney cancer Is cancer that has spread beyond the kidney.The main treatment options include:
1. Medication such as Sunitinib (Sutent) or Axitinib (Inlyta) inhibit tumor growth by blocking the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis).
2. Immunotherapy utilizes the body's immune system to fight cancer. Nivolumab (Opdivo), Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) enhance the immune response against cancer cells.
3. Chemotherapy may be used in specific situations, such as in certain subtypes of renal cell carcinoma. Clinical trials are also available for patients exploring chemotherapeutic agent combinations.
4. Surgery may be considered for palliation and relieving symptoms.
