Kidney Cancer Can Be a Surprise – Know the Hidden Signs

Written by: Editorial Team

Medically reviewed by: Dr. Abhik Debnath - Consultant Urologist, Andrologist & Kidney Transplant Surgeon

Overview

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC), often develops silently without any obvious warning signs. Many patients are diagnosed incidentally during a health check-up or imaging scan for another condition. That’s why experts say kidney cancer can be a surprise, it hides in plain sight.

At PACE Hospitals, Hyderabad, our urologists and oncologists stress that early detection is the most effective defense against kidney cancer. With advancements in imaging, as well as laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques, many cases of kidney cancer are now highly treatable, particularly when diagnosed early.

This article explores the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of kidney cancer and why being aware of the subtle signs could save your life.

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located behind the abdomen, responsible for filtering waste, balancing electrolytes, and regulating blood pressure.

Kidney cancer arises when abnormal cells in the kidney multiply uncontrollably, resulting in a malignant tumor. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), accounting for about 90% of adult kidney cancers. Less common forms include transitional cell carcinoma, Wilms’ tumor (in children), and renal sarcoma.

Unlike other cancers, kidney cancer often produces no symptoms in the early stages. It grows quietly inside the body until it becomes large enough to cause noticeable problems. Many cases are discovered incidentally during ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans for unrelated conditions such as back pain or digestive discomfort.

That’s why routine health check-ups and abdominal imaging are crucial for early detection, particularly for people at higher risk

While the exact cause of kidney cancer isn’t always known, several factors increase the risk of developing it:

• Smoking: One of the leading risk factors; toxins in cigarette smoke damage kidney cells.
• Obesity: Excess body weight and hormonal imbalance can trigger abnormal cell growth.
• High Blood Pressure: Chronic hypertension affects kidney function and cell regulation.
• Family History: Genetic mutations (such as the VHL gene) or a family history of kidney cancer increase susceptibility.
• Occupational Exposure: Prolonged contact with industrial chemicals, cadmium, or asbestos.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Long-term dialysis or kidney failure increases cancer risk.
• Gender & Age: More common in men aged 50–70 years.
• Genetic Syndromes: Conditions like von Hippel–Lindau disease and Birt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome.

At PACE Hospitals, a detailed risk assessment helps identify patients needing periodic screening and lifestyle counseling.

Knowing the stage of kidney cancer helps doctors determine the most appropriate treatment.

• Stage I: Tumor is 7 cm or smaller and confined to the kidney.
• Stage II: Tumor is larger than 7 cm but still limited to the kidney.
• Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or major veins.
• Stage IV: Metastasis to lungs, bones, liver, or brain.

Detection at an early stage (Stage I or II) often makes curative surgical removal possible, whereas advanced cases may require a combination of treatments.

PACE Hospitals provides complete, personalized kidney cancer treatment with care from a team of urologists, oncologists, and kidney specialists.

• Surgery (Primary Treatment)
• Partial nephrectomy: It involves removing the tumor while conserving kidney tissue, which is suitable for tiny, localized cancers.
• Radical nephrectomy: It is the complete removal of the diseased kidney, adrenal gland, and adjacent lymph nodes.
• Laparoscopic or robotic nephrectomy: These are minimally invasive treatments which results in faster recovery and less scarring.

• Targeted therapy
• Sunitinib, pazopanib, and cabozantinib are drugs that inhibit the growth of cancer by blocking certain chemicals.

• Immunotherapy.
• Drugs like nivolumab and pembrolizumab assist the immune system in detecting and killing cancer cells.

• Radiation therapy.
• Used to relieve pain or when surgery is not an option.

• Chemotherapy
• Although less successful in most kidney tumors, it is utilized for certain subtypes, such as sarcomatoid variations.

Patients are regularly followed up after surgery or therapy to check kidney function and discover recurrence early.

PACE Hospitals provides

• Tailored rehabilitation regimens to help patients recover more quickly.
• Healthy Eating: To protect and strengthen your kidneys, follow a balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive salt and processed foods.
• Regular Check-Ups: Regular blood tests, urine tests, and imaging scans help monitor kidney function, detect changes early, and allow timely treatment to prevent complications.
• Overall Support: Stay healthy, manage stress, and seek mental health support to improve your overall well-being.

While not all kidney malignancies are avoidable, making some lifestyle modifications can significantly lower your risk:

• Quit smoking completely.
• Maintain a healthy weight and schedule regular physical activity into your daily routine.
• Maintain efficient control of high blood pressure and diabetes.
• Limit your exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals.
• Drink plenty of water and follow a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Go for annual health check-ups and kidney ultrasounds if you have risk factors.

• Expert Uro-Oncology Team: Skilled surgeons and oncologists with years of experience.
• Advanced Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery Units.
• Integrated Oncology & Nephrology Care for precision treatment.
• 24×7 Critical Care & Modern ICU Support.
• Cashless Insurance & International Patient Services.

PACE Hospitals is recognized as one of the top kidney cancer treatment centres in Hyderabad, known for ethical, transparent, and patient-focused care.

Kidney cancer can be a real surprise, quiet at first, but dangerous if left untreated. Routine screenings and identification of mild signs can be the difference between early recovery and advanced disease.

At PACE Hospitals, Hyderabad, our goal is early detection, minimally invasive treatment, and complete recovery — helping patients return to healthy, confident lives.

If you notice any persistent back pain, blood in urine, or unexplained fatigue, don’t wait — get evaluated today.