Kidney Cancer Overview: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment
Kidney cancer often shows few early signs but can be serious if untreated. Learn about its symptoms, causes, diagnosis methods, and treatment options to ensure early detection and effective care.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 25th Aug, 2025
Kidney cancer is a serious health condition that affects thousands of people every year. While the word "cancer" can be frightening, understanding the disease, its symptoms, and available treatments can help you take control of your health. This article will guide you through the basics of kidney cancer in simple terms, so you can recognize warning signs, seek timely medical help, and explore treatment options.
What is Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer occurs when abnormal cells in one or both kidneys grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located below the rib cage, responsible for filtering waste from the blood and producing urine. When cancer develops in the kidneys, it can interfere with their normal function and spread to other parts of the body if not treated early.
The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which accounts for about 90% of cases. Other rare types include transitional cell carcinoma and Wilms' tumor (which mostly affects children).
Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
In its early stages, kidney cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the tumor grows, the following signs may appear:
- Blood in urine (hematuria) – The urine may look pink, red, or cola-colored.
- Persistent pain in the side or lower back – This pain does not go away and is not related to an injury.
- A lump or mass in the abdomen or side – Sometimes felt during a physical exam.
- Unexplained weight loss – Losing weight without changes in diet or exercise.
- Fatigue and weakness – Feeling unusually tired even after rest.
- Fever that comes and goes without infection – A sign that the body is fighting something abnormal.
- Loss of appetite – Not feeling hungry even when you should.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor. While these signs don’t always mean cancer, early detection improves treatment success.
What Causes Kidney Cancer?
The exact cause of kidney cancer is not always clear, but certain risk factors increase the chances of developing it:
- Smoking – Smokers have a higher risk than non-smokers.
- Obesity – Excess weight can lead to hormonal changes that promote cancer.
- High blood pressure (hypertension) – Long-term uncontrolled blood pressure may contribute.
- Family history – Having a close relative with kidney cancer increases risk.
- Exposure to harmful chemicals – Certain workplace chemicals (like asbestos or cadmium) may play a role.
- Advanced kidney disease or dialysis – People on long-term dialysis are at higher risk.
- Genetic conditions – Rare inherited disorders like von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease can increase risk.
While some risk factors (like genetics) cannot be changed, lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and controlling blood pressure can help reduce risk.
Consult Top Oncologist
Diagnosis of Kidney Cancer
If your doctor suspects kidney cancer, they may recommend the following tests:
1. Imaging Tests
- Ultrasound – Uses sound waves to create images of the kidneys.
- CT Scan – Provides detailed cross-sectional images to detect tumors.
- MRI – Uses magnetic fields to examine soft tissues more clearly.
2. Urine and Blood Tests
- Urinalysis – Checks for blood or abnormal cells in urine.
- Blood tests – Assess kidney function and overall health.
3. Biopsy (if needed)
- A small sample of kidney tissue is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm cancer.
Once diagnosed, doctors determine the stage of cancer (how far it has spread) to plan the best treatment.
Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer
Treatment depends on the cancer’s stage, overall health, and personal preferences. Common approaches include:
1. Surgery
- Partial nephrectomy – Only the tumor and a small part of the kidney are removed.
- Radical nephrectomy – The entire kidney, along with surrounding tissues, is removed.
2. Targeted Therapy
- Uses drugs to attack specific cancer cells without harming healthy ones.
3. Immunotherapy
- Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
4. Radiation Therapy
- Uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells (mainly for advanced cases).
5. Cryoablation or Radiofrequency Ablation
- Minimally invasive procedures that freeze or heat small tumors to destroy them.
- Your doctor will discuss the best option based on your condition.
Living with Kidney Cancer: Tips for Better Health
If you or a loved one has kidney cancer, these lifestyle changes can help:
- Eat a balanced diet – Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water unless advised otherwise.
- Exercise regularly – Moderate activity helps maintain strength and energy.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol – Both can worsen health conditions.
- Manage stress – Meditation, yoga, or counseling can help cope with emotions.
When to See a Doctor?
If you notice any unusual symptoms like blood in urine, persistent back pain, or unexplained weight loss, do not ignore them. Early detection saves lives.
Need expert advice?
You can book a consultation with an oncologist or schedule a diagnostic test through Apollo 24|7 for timely and expert care.
Final Thoughts
Kidney cancer can be a challenging diagnosis, but advancements in treatment offer hope. By recognizing symptoms early, making healthy lifestyle choices, and following medical advice, you can improve outcomes.
Consult Top Oncologist
Consult Top Oncologist
Dr Sunita Samleti
Oncologist
18 Years • M.D. (Pathology)- TN Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Mar 2005 M.B.B.S. Grant Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Oct 1999
Chinagadila
Apollo Hospitals Health City Unit, Chinagadila
Dr Gowshikk Rajkumar
Oncologist
10 Years • MBBS, DMRT, DNB in Radiation oncology
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr.sanchayan Mandal
Oncologist
17 Years • MBBS, DrNB( MEDICAL ONCOLOGY), DNB (RADIOTHERAPY),ECMO. PDCR. ASCO
Kolkata
Dr. Sanchayan Mandal Oncology Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. Sanchayan Mandal
Oncologist
17 Years • MBBS, DNB Raditherapy, DrNB Medical Oncology
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Praveen Kumar Garg
Surgical Oncologist
26 Years • MBBS, M.S.(Gen.Surg.), M.Ch.(OncoSurg.)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(50+ Patients)
Consult Top Oncologist
Dr Sunita Samleti
Oncologist
18 Years • M.D. (Pathology)- TN Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Mar 2005 M.B.B.S. Grant Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Oct 1999
Chinagadila
Apollo Hospitals Health City Unit, Chinagadila
Dr Gowshikk Rajkumar
Oncologist
10 Years • MBBS, DMRT, DNB in Radiation oncology
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr.sanchayan Mandal
Oncologist
17 Years • MBBS, DrNB( MEDICAL ONCOLOGY), DNB (RADIOTHERAPY),ECMO. PDCR. ASCO
Kolkata
Dr. Sanchayan Mandal Oncology Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. Sanchayan Mandal
Oncologist
17 Years • MBBS, DNB Raditherapy, DrNB Medical Oncology
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Praveen Kumar Garg
Surgical Oncologist
26 Years • MBBS, M.S.(Gen.Surg.), M.Ch.(OncoSurg.)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(50+ Patients)