The most common type of Kidney Cancer is Renal Cell Carcinoma. These cancer cells will appear in the lining of tubules (very small tubes) in the kidneys and it grows rapidly to form an isolated mass, or a tumour, within the kidneys. There can be more than one tumour appearing in one or both kidneys. This form of Kidney Cancer usually occur in men that are aged between 50 to 70 years old.
The Kidney organs functions as filters to excrete extra fluids, electrolytes and waste from your bloodstream. At the same time, the important elements are maintained. These kidneys are positioned on both sides of your spine.
It's still unknown what is the cause for Kidney Cancer, however there are factors that increases the risk:
- Age (between 50 and 70 years of age)
- Gender (men are more prone than women)
- Race (African Americans and chinese)
- Smoking
These symptoms might include:
- Anaemia
- Back pain
- Blood in the urine (could also be a sign of other diseases)
- Fatigure
- Fever
- Flank pain
- Lump on one side of the tummy
- Weight loss
Treatment shows effective if there is early detection. Treatment includes:
- Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy, a minimally invasive surgery to absolutely remove the affected parts of the kidney (higher chance of being cured)
During the later stages of Kidney Cancer, treatment option can include:
- Immunotherapy to combat cancer cells by involving the body's immune system
- Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy to block bleeding and pain from cancer
- Radiation Therapy is performed to alleviate pain and to block the bleeding from cancer (though might not be effective)
- Targeted Therapy is carried out by using agents to stop blood supply to cancer cells
