Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of cancer is unknown however it has been seen that the DNA in the cells undergoes mutation which causes abnormal growth of the cell resulting in formation of a tumor. People with weak immune system are more prone for kidney cancer. Certain risk factors have been proposed for developing kidney cancer are Use of tobacco, alcohol, smoking, certain severe infections and exposure to radiation. Stress, Certain environmental pollutants and Regular use of NSAID are other contributing factors. People undergoing dialysis for a prolong period for kidney failure are prone for developing kidney cancer. Kidney cancer can also occur as a result of cancer conditions in other parts of the body i.e.: metastasis.
Symptoms
There are different types of kidney cancers however the common types of kidney cancer are renal cell carcinoma and transitional cell carcinoma. In children wilms tumor is commonly seen. A carcinoma in its early stages may not show any symptoms, however as the size of the tumor increases patient may complaint of pain in abdomen and difficulty in urination. The patient passes bloody urine. On examination a mass is felt in the lumbar quadrant. Fever which is intermittent can also be seen. Malaise, fatigue, weightloss, loss of appetite is other accompanying symptoms seen. Other symptoms due to metastasis can also be seen. In the later stages of cancer metastasis can occur thus deteriorating the health.
Investigations
Diagnosis is done on the basis of symptoms narrated by the patient and the palpation of the abdomen carried out by the doctor. Certain investigations which are recommended are urine analysis (Urine Routine and urine culture), complete blood count and renal function test. Renal ultrasound or CT scan is advised. Biopsy is the diagnostic investigations. Intravenous urogram is the other investigations which can be done. Certain other test can be done to monitor the other underlying causes.PET scan to detect metastasis in other parts of the body is done.
Treatment
Depending upon the extent and stages of cancer the treatment is planned. Various surgical approaches can be adopted. Partial or complete nepherectomy method can be adopted. Radiation therapy is used. Targeted chemotherapy and immunotherapy agents are administered.
Recent update:
University of Cincinnati academic health centre has discovered that a membrane channel, Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 3, or TRPM3, promotes growth of kidney cancer tumors, and targeting this channel therapeutically could lead to more treatment options.
