Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer starts when kidney cells change and grow quickly, forming a mass called a tumor. It is sometimes called renal cancer.1 The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma. This type of cancer starts in tiny filtering units inside the kidney, called tubules. 2

Many people are diagnosed with kidney cancer before it spreads to other parts of the body. When detected early, it is often treatable.2

Common symptoms and warning signs

Kidney cancer may not cause symptoms at first. As it grows, signs may include: 2

  • Blood in the urine (which may appear pink or dark red)
  • Pain in the back or side that doesn’t go away
  • Feeling unusually tired
  • Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
  • A lump or swelling in the side or lower back
  • Fever that isn’t caused by an infection

If you experience any of these symptoms, talk with your doctor or health care provider. Some symptoms may be caused by other conditions, so a check-up is important.

What causes kidney cancer?

The exact cause of kidney cancer isn’t always known. Several factors may increase risk, including:3

  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Exposure to certain chemicals
  • Long-term use of certain pain medicines
  • Family history of kidney cancer
  • Genetics and inherited conditions

Some risk factors can't be changed, but adopting healthy habits may help keep your kidneys healthy over time.

How kidney cancer is diagnosed

Doctors may use many tests to help diagnose kidney cancer and learn more about the tumor. These can include:4

  • Physical exam and health history: Reviewing symptoms, lifestyle factors and medical history
  • Urine and blood tests: Checking kidney function and looking for signs of disease
  • Imaging tests: Such as ultrasound, CT scan or MRI, to find and measure a tumor
  • Biopsy: Taking a small piece of tissue to be tested in a lab to confirm cancer cells

Kidney cancer treatment options: surgery, immunotherapy and more

Treatment depends on the stage of kidney cancer, the type of tumor and overall health. Treatment options include:5

  • Surgery: The most common treatment, which may mean taking out part or all of the affected kidney
  • Nonsurgical: Also called ablation, procedures that destroy cancer by heating or freezing cells
  • Immunotherapy: Uses the body’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells
  • Targeted therapy: Medications that act on specific genes or proteins that help cancer grow
  • Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy rays to shrink or destroy tumors

Your doctor will help determine the right approach for your condition and health needs.

Living with kidney cancer

Follow-up care is an important part of recovery. Regular visits to your provider help watch for a recurrence and deal with side effects from treatment. Healthy habits — like staying active, eating nutritious foods and avoiding tobacco — can also support your overall well-being.6  Talk with your doctor before significantly increasing your activity level. This is especially important for those with underlying medical conditions. Ask about the amounts and types of activities that may be best for you.

Emotional support is just as important. Talking with family, counselors or support groups may help you cope with changes during and after treatment.6