There are two types of kidney cancer seen at Siteman: renal cell cancer (also called renal adenocarcinoma, characterized by cancer cells found in the lining of tubules in the kidney; and transitional cell cancer of the renal pelvis and ureter, malignant cells that form in the renal pelvis where the ureters connect and in the ureters, the long tubes that connect the kidney to the bladder. The main goal at the Siteman Cancer Center is to get a correct diagnosis of your condition and decide on the proper treatment. Specialists here excel in using the technology and experience to make an accurate diagnosis, often down to the genetic level so the best treatment options may be identified.
Estimate your risk for kidney cancer.
Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
The majority of small tumors have no signs or symptoms and are found on radiology tests done for another reason. However, you may experience:
- Blood in the urine
- A lump in the abdomen
- A pain in the back or side that doesn’t go away
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss for no known reason
- Anemia
- Painful or frequent urination
Staging of Kidney Cancer
Staging is ranked 1 through 4 and recurrent, meaning the cancer comes back after treatment. Stage is an important factor in treatment options.
Prognosis
The prognosis (chance of recovery) depends on the following:
- The stage and grade of the cancer.
- The location of the tumor.
- Whether the patient’s other kidney is healthy.
- The patient’s age and general health.
- Whether the cancer has recurred.
Most transitional cell cancer of the renal pelvis and ureter can be cured if found early.