Renal Cell Carcinoma: What You Need to Know About Kidney Cancer

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common kind of kidney cancer, making up about 90% of all kidney cancer cases. It starts in the lining of the small tubes in your kidney and can grow into a tumor. Often, people don’t notice symptoms early on, which is why it’s usually found by accident during scans for other issues.

Why should you care about RCC? Kidney cancer can be serious if not caught on time. But knowing what to watch for and understanding your options can really help. Symptoms like blood in the urine, pain in your side that doesn’t go away, or a lump you can feel around your kidney are red flags to get checked out.

Spotting the Signs Early

Early symptoms of renal cell carcinoma are often subtle or missing. That’s why it’s often called a "silent" disease. When symptoms do appear, they might include unexplained weight loss, fever that comes and goes, or feeling unusually tired. If you experience any of these, especially alongside changes in urination, it’s time to see your doctor.

Doctors usually use imaging tests like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs to spot RCC tumors. Sometimes a biopsy is needed to know for sure if the tumor is cancerous. Early diagnosis improves your chances of successful treatment, so don’t delay getting checked if you have concerns.

How Is Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated?

Treatment depends on the size and stage of the tumor. Small tumors might just need surgery to remove part or all of the affected kidney. That sounds scary, but many people live full lives with one healthy kidney. In some cases, less invasive options like ablation can be used to destroy tumor cells without surgery.

If the cancer has spread, targeted therapies and immunotherapy are newer options that help your body fight cancer. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, these treatments focus more on attacking cancer cells specifically or boosting your immune system’s response.

Remember, a kidney cancer diagnosis isn’t always a death sentence. Many people manage renal cell carcinoma successfully, especially if it’s caught early or closely monitored. If you’re worried about risks or symptoms, talk openly with your healthcare provider—they can guide you through the next steps with clarity and care.