Understanding the Different Types of Kidney Cancer
There are several types of kidney cancer, each with unique characteristics that affect how the disease develops, spreads, and responds to treatment. Understanding the different types of kidney cancer is crucial for accurate diagnosis and personalized care. In this section, we’ll explore the main subtypes to help you better understand what a diagnosis may involve and what to expect moving forward.
What are the Different Types of Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer is more common in adults and accounts for approximately 85% of the cases. This kind of cancer develops in the proximal renal tubules, which constitute the filtration system of the kidney. Each kidney has thousands of those tiny filtration units.Â
Kidney Cancer Types are:
- Urothelial Cancer: This is also referred to as transitional cell carcinoma. It makes up 5-10% of kidney cancers diagnosed in adults. Urothelial carcinoma starts in the region of the kidney where urine is collected.
- Sarcoma: Kidney sarcoma is a rare condition. It is normally treated by surgery. However, sarcoma usually returns to the renal area or propagates to other parts of the body. Another surgical procedure or chemotherapy may be recommended following the initial surgery.
- Wilms Tumor: Wilms tumor is better treated with radiation and chemotherapy than other types of kidney cancer in conjunction with surgery. The outcome was a different approach to treatment.
- Lymphoma: Lymphoma can enlarge both kidneys and is associated with large lymph nodes, known as lymph node disease, in other parts of the body, including the neck, chest, and abdominal cavity. If lymphoma is a possibility, your physician can do a biopsy and suggest chemo instead of surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. Can kidney cancer types affect treatment options?
A. Yes, the type of kidney cancer can significantly influence treatment. For example, clear cell RCC may respond well to targeted therapies, while other rare types may need different approaches like chemotherapy or surgery.
Q2. Which type of kidney cancer is most common in adults?
A. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common type of kidney cancer in adults. It usually starts in the small tubes of the kidney and has several subtypes like clear cell, papillary, and chromophobe RCC.
Q3. How is the type of kidney cancer diagnosed?
A. Doctors use a combination of imaging tests, lab work, and sometimes a biopsy to identify the specific type of kidney cancer. Accurate diagnosis helps guide effective treatment planning.
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Author Bio:
Dr. Yashashree Joshi – MBBS, MD (Philippines)
Dr. Yashashree Joshi, MD, is a globally-trained oncologist with a robust academic background and extensive experience in pioneering cancer treatments. Dedicated to patient-centered care, she continually integrates the latest advancements in oncology to provide her patients with innovative and personalized treatment plans.
Content Medically Reviewed By MedicoExperts Editorial & Clinically Review Board
