Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the most common type of kidney cancer, accounting for nearly 90% of all kidney malignancies. This aggressive cancer begins in the renal tubules, which are responsible for filtering blood and producing urine. RCC is known for its ability to grow silently in the early stages, often remaining undetected until it reaches an advanced stage.
RCC develops when abnormal cells in the kidneys grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that can spread to nearby tissues and distant organs. The kidneys, located on either side of the spine, are essential for filtering waste from the blood and regulating fluid balance. When cancer develops in these organs, it can compromise overall health.
Most common kidney cancer – Renal Cell Carcinoma accounts for the majority of kidney cancer cases.
Difficult to detect early – It often remains asymptomatic in its initial stages.
More common in older adults – Typically affects individuals over 50 years old.
Linked to lifestyle and genetic factors – Smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure are significant risk factors.
The exact cause of RCC remains unclear, but several factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Smoking – Increases the risk by damaging kidney cells over time.
Obesity – Excess body fat contributes to hormonal imbalances.
High blood pressure – Hypertension may contribute to kidney damage.
Genetics – A family history of kidney cancer raises the risk.
Chronic kidney disease – Long-term kidney problems can lead to cancerous changes.
Occupational exposure – Contact with certain chemicals increases the risk.
Male gender – Men are twice as likely to develop RCC compared to women.
Early symptoms of RCC are often absent, but as the tumor grows, signs may appear.
Blood in the urine (Hematuria) – A common sign, appearing as pink or red urine.
Lower back pain – Persistent discomfort on one side of the lower back.
Unexplained weight loss – Significant weight loss without changes in diet or activity.
Fatigue – Feeling persistently tired or weak.
Fever – Intermittent fever without an infection.
Swelling in the abdomen – Due to tumor growth or fluid buildup.
Anemia – Low red blood cell count leading to weakness and dizziness.
RCC has several subtypes, classified based on cellular structure and behavior.
Most common type, comprising about 70% of RCC cases.
Cells appear clear due to lipid and carbohydrate content.
Highly aggressive but responds well to targeted therapy.
Accounts for about 10-15% of cases.
Tumor forms finger-like projections.
Less aggressive than clear cell RCC.
Represents about 5% of cases.
Cells appear pale or slightly granular under a microscope.
Slow-growing and less likely to metastasize.
Rare and aggressive form.
Arises from the collecting ducts of the kidney.
Poor prognosis due to rapid spread.
Does not fit into other categories.
Requires specialized diagnostic techniques.
RCC is often detected incidentally during imaging for unrelated medical conditions.
Urinalysis – Detects blood or abnormal substances in urine.
Blood tests – Checks kidney function and anemia.
Ultrasound – Helps identify kidney abnormalities.
CT Scan or MRI – Provides detailed imaging of kidney tumors.
Biopsy – Extracts a small tissue sample for microscopic examination.
Bone scan – Checks if cancer has spread to bones.
Treatment depends on the stage, size, and spread of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health.
Partial Nephrectomy – Removes only the tumor while preserving kidney function.
Radical Nephrectomy – Entire kidney and surrounding tissue are removed.
Laparoscopic Surgery – Minimally invasive technique with quicker recovery.
Uses drugs to block specific pathways involved in cancer growth.
Common drugs: Sunitinib, Pazopanib, and Axitinib.
Effective in treating advanced RCC.
Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
Drugs like Nivolumab and Pembrolizumab are commonly used.
Effective in metastatic RCC.
High-energy rays target and destroy cancer cells.
Used for symptom relief in advanced cases.
Less effective for RCC but used in certain cases.
Combination therapy may be applied when other treatments fail.
Survival rates depend on the stage at diagnosis and overall patient health.
Localized (confined to kidney) – 5-year survival rate of 90%.
Regional (spread to nearby tissues/lymph nodes) – 5-year survival rate of 70%.
Distant metastasis (spread to distant organs) – 5-year survival rate of 12%.
Tumor size and stage – Smaller, localized tumors have a better prognosis.
Patient’s age and overall health – Younger, healthier individuals respond better to treatment.
Response to treatment – Effective response to therapy improves survival.
Histological subtype – Some types are more aggressive than others.
While RCC cannot always be prevented, certain measures can lower risk.
Quit smoking – Reduces risk significantly.
Maintain a healthy weight – Obesity is a known risk factor.
Manage blood pressure – Keeps kidney function optimal.
Stay hydrated – Supports kidney health and detoxification.
Avoid excessive use of painkillers – Certain NSAIDs can harm kidney function.
Managing RCC requires lifestyle adjustments and ongoing medical care.
Regular medical check-ups – Monitoring for recurrence or complications.
Healthy diet – Nutritious meals help maintain strength.
Physical activity – Light exercise improves overall well-being.
Pain management – Medications and therapies relieve discomfort.
Emotional support – Counseling and support groups provide psychological help.