DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Urologic Condition

Kidney Cancer

HIGH SEVERITY

Cancer that starts in the kidneys, most commonly renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Often discovered incidentally on imaging. Associated with smoking, obesity, and hypertension. Can be cured if caught early but has poor prognosis if metastatic.

Global Affected

430.0K

Countries

89

Symptoms

Blood in urine
Flank pain
Abdominal mass
Weight loss
Fever
Fatigue
Anemia
High blood pressure
Often asymptomatic early

Treatment Options

Radical nephrectomy
Partial nephrectomy
Ablation (cryo, RFA)
Active surveillance
Targeted therapy (sunitinib, pazopanib)
Immunotherapy
Combination therapy
Clinical trials

Risk Factors

1Smoking
2Obesity
3Hypertension
4Age >50
5Male gender
6Family history
7Von Hippel-Lindau disease
8Chronic kidney disease
9Dialysis (acquired cystic disease)

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1CT scan with contrast
  • 2MRI
  • 3Ultrasound
  • 4Biopsy (selected cases)
  • 5Chest CT (metastasis)
  • 6Bone scan
  • 7PET scan
  • 8Blood tests

Prognosis

Localized: 90%+ 5-year survival. Regional: 70% 5-year survival. Metastatic: 10-15% 5-year survival (improving with immunotherapy). Many small tumors indolent.

Prevention

  • Smoking cessation
  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Blood pressure control
  • Healthy diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Avoid occupational exposures
  • Screening (selected high-risk)

Research Status

Partial or radical nephrectomy for localized disease. Targeted therapy (TKIs) for metastatic. Immunotherapy (checkpoint inhibitors) revolutionized treatment. Combination therapies showing promise. Active surveillance for small, slow-growing tumors.

Sources

  • https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/kidney-cancer.html
  • https://www.cancer.gov/types/kidney/patient/kidney-treatment-pdq
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-cancer

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.