By Renova Hospitals
March 13, 2026
Kidney Cancer: Early Signs, Causes, and Treatment Options
Kidney cancer develops in the kidneys, two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine that help filter waste from the blood. The kidneys remove waste from the blood, produce urine, regulate fluid balance, and help control blood pressure.
Kidney cancer begins when abnormal cells in the kidney start growing and multiplying in an uncontrolled way, forming a tumour that may spread if not treated. The most common form of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which accounts for about 85–90% of cases in adults.
Kidney cancer is being diagnosed more frequently worldwide, partly due to better imaging technologies and increased awareness. In India, kidney cancer is less common compared to Western countries, but its incidence is gradually rising due to increasing rates of obesity, hypertension, and smoking. Knowing the symptoms and risk factors of kidney cancer can help people recognise warning signs early and seek medical attention.
Key Takeaways
- Kidney cancer most commonly occurs as renal cell carcinoma (RCC).
- Early stages may not cause symptoms.
- Warning signs include blood in urine, persistent back pain, and fatigue.
- Surgery is the primary treatment for early kidney cancer.
- Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce risk.
What is Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer develops when changes in the DNA of kidney cells cause them to grow and divide abnormally. Over time, these abnormal cells may form a tumour within the kidney.
The kidneys perform several vital functions, including:
- Filtering waste products from the blood
- Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance
- Producing urine to eliminate toxins
- Regulating blood pressure through hormone production
- Stimulating the production of red blood cells
Because the kidneys are located deep inside the body, early kidney tumours may not cause noticeable symptoms. Many kidney tumours are discovered during imaging tests, such as CT scans or ultrasounds, performed for other health concerns.
Types of Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer includes several types depending on the type of kidney cells where the cancer begins.
1. Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma is the most common form of kidney cancer, accounting for nearly 70–80% of cases. It originates in the lining of the kidney tubules, where urine is produced.
Under a microscope, these cancer cells often appear pale or clear because they contain fats and sugars.
2. Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma
Papillary RCC represents about 10–15% of kidney cancers. It forms small finger-like projections known as papillae.
There are two main subtypes:
- Type 1 is usually slower growing
- Type 2 is more aggressive and faster spreading
3. Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma
This subtype accounts for about 5% of kidney cancers and generally has a better prognosis because it tends to grow more slowly than other forms.
4. Collecting Duct Carcinoma
Collecting duct carcinoma is a rare and aggressive form of kidney cancer that develops in the kidney's collecting ducts.
5. Renal Medullary Carcinoma
This rare type is often associated with sickle cell trait and tends to affect younger individuals.
Causes of Kidney Cancer
The exact cause of kidney cancer is not always known. In many cases, kidney cancer begins when mutations occur in the DNA of kidney cells. These DNA changes affect normal cell growth and cause cells to multiply uncontrollably.
As abnormal cells continue to grow, they can form tumours that may invade nearby tissues or spread to other organs through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Major Risk Factors for Kidney Cancer
Smoking
Smoking is one of the most important risk factors. Tobacco chemicals can damage kidney cells and increase the likelihood of cancer development.
Obesity
Excess body weight is strongly linked to kidney cancer. Obesity can alter hormone levels and increase inflammation, which may contribute to cancer growth.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Long-term high blood pressure may damage kidney tissues and increase the risk of tumour formation.
Age
Kidney cancer most commonly occurs in people over the age of 55. The average age of diagnosis is around 60-65 years.
Family History and Genetic Disorders
People with a family history of kidney cancer or genetic conditions such as Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome have a higher risk.
Long-Term Dialysis
Patients undergoing long-term dialysis due to chronic kidney disease may develop cysts in the kidneys that increase cancer risk.
Exposure to Chemicals
Exposure to industrial chemicals such as trichloroethylene, used in metal degreasing, has been linked to kidney cancer.
Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As the tumour grows, symptoms may begin to appear.
Common symptoms include:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria), which may appear pink, red, or cola-colored
- Persistent pain in the side or lower back
- A lump or swelling in the abdomen or side
- Fatigue or weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever that comes and goes
- Loss of appetite
- Night sweats
- Anaemia (low red blood cell count)
These symptoms can also occur due to other non-cancerous conditions. However, a doctor should evaluate any persistent or unusual symptoms.
How is Kidney Cancer Diagnosed?
If kidney cancer is suspected, doctors may recommend tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of the cancer.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests are commonly used to detect kidney tumours.
Common imaging tests include:
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography) – provides detailed cross-sectional images of the kidney
- MRI Scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) – useful when CT scans cannot be performed
- Ultrasound – helps detect abnormal masses in the kidney
Blood and Urine Tests
Laboratory tests may be used to evaluate kidney function and detect abnormalities such as anaemia or abnormal liver function.
Biopsy
In some cases, doctors may remove a small sample of kidney tissue for microscopic examination to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Stages of Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is staged using the TNM staging system, which describes the size of the tumour and whether it has spread to lymph nodes or distant organs.
Stage I
- Tumour is 7 cm or smaller
- Cancer is confined to the kidney
Approximate 5-year survival rate: 90%
Stage II
- The tumour is larger than 7 cm
- Still limited to the kidney
Approximate 5-year survival rate: 80%
Stage III
- Cancer spreads to nearby lymph nodes or blood vessels
Approximate 5-year survival rate: 70%
Stage IV
- Cancer spreads to distant organs such as the lungs, bones, or liver
Advanced kidney cancer often requires systemic treatments such as targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer
Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer, tumour size, and the patient’s overall health.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is the primary treatment for most localised kidney cancers.
Partial Nephrectomy
In this procedure, the surgeon removes only the tumour while preserving the remaining healthy portion of the kidney.
Benefits include:
- Preservation of kidney function
- Lower risk of chronic kidney disease
- Suitable for small or early-stage tumours
Radical Nephrectomy
Radical nephrectomy involves removing the entire kidney along with surrounding tissues and sometimes nearby lymph nodes.
This procedure is recommended when the tumour is large or located in a complex position.
Minimally Invasive Treatments
For patients who cannot undergo surgery, minimally invasive procedures may be considered.
Cryoablation
This technique destroys tumour cells by freezing them with extremely cold temperatures.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation uses high-frequency energy to generate heat and destroy cancer cells.
Immunotherapy for Kidney Cancer
Immunotherapy stimulates the body's immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells. These therapies are often used for advanced or metastatic kidney cancer.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy drugs work by blocking specific pathways that cancer cells use to grow and spread. These medications are commonly used in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is sometimes used to:
- Control symptoms in advanced cancer
- Reduce tumour size
- Treat cancer that has spread to other organs
Radiation therapy may be used to help control symptoms or treat cancer that has spread to other areas.
Prognosis and Survival Rates
The outlook for kidney cancer patients depends largely on the stage of cancer at diagnosis.
Approximate survival rates include:
- Stage I: about 90%
- Stage II: about 80%
- Stage III: about 70%
- Stage IV: significantly lower survival rates
Early detection and timely treatment greatly improve survival outcomes.
Can Kidney Cancer Be Prevented?
Although kidney cancer cannot always be prevented, healthy lifestyle habits may help lower the risk.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight is strongly linked to kidney cancer risk.
Quit Smoking
Stopping smoking significantly reduces the risk of many cancers, including kidney cancer.
Control Blood Pressure
Proper management of hypertension protects kidney health.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall health.
Stay Physically Active
Regular exercise improves metabolic health and lowers cancer risk.
When Should You See a Doctor?
- Blood in the urine
- Persistent pain in the side or back
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe fatigue or weakness
If these symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a doctor for proper evaluation.
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor, regarding any medical condition or symptoms. Do not ignore or delay seeking medical care based on the information provided here.
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