Renal tumour refers to the presence of a mass or growth in the kidneys. The most common type of renal tumour is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which accounts for the majority of kidney cancers. RCC originates in the cells lining the small tubes (tubules) of the kidney and can vary in terms of aggressiveness.

Symptoms of Renal Tumours

In the early stages, renal tumours may not cause noticeable symptoms.

As the tumour grows, symptoms may include:

  • Blood in the urine (hematuria)
  • Back or side pain
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • A lump or mass in the abdomen or side

Diagnosis

Imaging Tests:

Imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to visualise the kidneys and detect any abnormalities or masses.

Biopsy:

In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to obtain a sample of the kidney tissue for examination under a microscope. This helps in confirming the diagnosis and determining the type of renal tumour.

Types of Renal Tumours

Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC):

The most common type of kidney cancer, RCC, has several subtypes, including clear cell, papillary, and chromophobe RCC.

Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC):

Transitional cell carcinoma occurs in the renal pelvis and is more closely associated with cancer of the ureters and bladder.

Wilms Tumour:

Wilms tumour is a type of kidney cancer that primarily affects children. It is rare in adults.

Treatment Options

The treatment of renal tumours depends on various factors, including the type of tumour, its size, stage, and the overall health of the patient. Common treatment options may include:

Surgery:

Surgical removal of the tumour or the entire kidney (nephrectomy) is a common treatment approach.

Partial Nephrectomy:

In cases where the tumour is small and confined to a specific part of the kidney, a partial nephrectomy may be performed to remove only the affected portion, preserving the remaining healthy kidney tissue.

Targeted Therapies:

Targeted therapies, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors, may be used in advanced cases to target specific pathways involved in cancer growth.

Radiation Therapy:

Radiation therapy may be used in certain cases to target and destroy cancer cells.

Chemotherapy:

Traditional chemotherapy is not typically the first-line treatment for renal tumours, but it may be used in specific situations.

Immunotherapy:

Immunotherapy, which enhances the body’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells, is becoming an important option for some patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma.

The choice of treatment depends on the specific characteristics of the renal tumour and the individual patient’s circumstances. It is important for individuals diagnosed with a renal tumour to work closely with a healthcare team, including urologists, oncologists, and other specialists, to develop a personalised treatment plan. Regular follow-up and monitoring are also essential for ongoing management and surveillance.

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