Kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma): Diagnosis, therapy and aftercare

Kidney cancer—medically known as renal cell carcinoma—develops when cells in the kidney tissue become malignant and grow uncontrollably. The kidneys are located on either side of the spine in the lower back and perform vital functions: they filter waste products from the blood and regulate the body’s fluid balance.

With approximately 15,000 new cases per year in German-speaking countries, kidney cancer is relatively rare. Fortunately, it is detected at an early stage in about 75% of cases and is then easily treatable.

How is kidney cancer detected?

In its early stages, kidney cancer usually causes no symptoms. In most cases, it is discovered incidentally—for example, during an ultrasound or a CT scan performed for another reason.

Symptoms such as blood in the urine or pain in the side of the back occur—if at all—only in advanced stages.

Diagnosis

Modern imaging techniques are available for the precise diagnosis of a kidney tumor:

• Computed tomography (CT): Provides detailed cross-sectional images and shows the size, location, and extent of the tumor
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Supplementary imaging, especially when a CT scan is not possible
• Biopsy: In certain cases, a small tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the size, location, and stage of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health.

Organ-preserving surgery (partial nephrectomy)

If the tumor is in a favorable location and small in size, only the affected part of the kidney, along with the tumor, is removed. The advantage: The remaining kidney is preserved and continues to function. Studies show that this method is just as effective as complete removal in many cases.

Complete kidney removal (nephrectomy)

For larger tumors or those in an unfavorable location, it may be necessary to remove the entire kidney. The remaining kidney then takes over the filtering function for the body.

Minimally invasive procedures

Both surgeries can often be performed laparoscopically today—that is, through small incisions using special instruments, which leads to a faster recovery.

Alternative Therapies When Surgery Is Not Feasible

If surgery is too stressful due to age or other medical conditions, there are other options:

• Radiofrequency ablation: The tumor is destroyed directly within the kidney using heat
• Cryoablation: Destruction of the tumor using extreme cold
• Active surveillance: For very small tumors (under 4 cm), a wait-and-see approach can be taken initially under close monitoring

Individualized Treatment Planning

When creating your treatment plan, your needs and physical condition are the focus. At UROMED, we discuss all options together—including their pros and cons as well as the impact on your life—to find the best possible treatment path.