Kidney Cancer Can Be a Surprise – Know the Hidden Signs

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 emphasize that early detection is the best weapon against this disease. With advancements in imaging, laparoscopic, and robotic surgical techniques, most kidney cancers are now treatable, especially when caught 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 occurs when abnormal cells in the kidney grow uncontrollably, forming 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 issues like back pain or digestive discomfort.



That’s why routine health check-ups and abdominal imaging play a crucial role in 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 (like VHL gene) or a family history of kidney cancer raise 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.

Most patients don’t notice symptoms until later stages. However, once the tumor grows, common signs include:

• Blood in urine (Hematuria) — may appear pink, red, or cola-colored.
• Persistent back or side pain below the ribs.
• Lump or mass in the abdomen or flank.
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
• Loss of appetite or fever not related to infection.
• Anemia or high blood pressure without a clear cause.

These symptoms can mimic other conditions like kidney stones or urinary infections, which is why timely evaluation by a urologist is crucial.

Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging, and laboratory investigations to confirm the presence, size, and spread of the tumor.



• Medical History and Physical Examination
• Doctors assess symptoms, lifestyle habits, family history, and blood pressure to look for risk clues.
• Urine and Blood Tests
• Urine test: Detects blood or abnormal cells.
• Kidney function test: Measures creatinine and urea to assess organ performance.
• Imaging Studies
• Ultrasound: Often the first test to detect a mass.
• CT Scan (Contrast-enhanced): Determines tumor size, stage, and spread to lymph nodes.
• MRI: Used when CT contrast can’t be given or for detailed staging.
• Chest X-ray & Bone scan: Check for metastasis (spread).
• Biopsy (if required)
• A small tissue sample may be taken using a fine needle for histopathological examination to confirm the diagnosis.

At PACE Hospitals, Hyderabad, all diagnostic steps — from advanced imaging to histopathology — are available under one roof, ensuring rapid and accurate diagnosis.

Understanding the stage of cancer helps doctors decide the best treatment approach.

• Stage I: Tumor ≤ 7 cm, confined to kidney.
• Stage II: Tumor > 7 cm, still within the kidney.
• Stage III: Cancer spreads to nearby lymph nodes or major veins.
• Stage IV: Metastasis to lungs, bones, liver, or brain.



Early-stage detection (Stage I or II) often allows for curative surgical removal, while advanced cases may need combined therapies.

PACE Hospitals offers comprehensive and personalized treatment plans for kidney cancer, led by a multidisciplinary team of urologists, oncologists, and nephrologists.

• Surgery (Primary Treatment)
• Partial Nephrectomy: Removal of the tumor while preserving kidney tissue — ideal for small, localized tumors.
• Radical Nephrectomy: Complete removal of the affected kidney, adrenal gland, and nearby lymph nodes.
• Laparoscopic or Robotic Nephrectomy: Minimally invasive options with faster recovery and minimal scarring.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs like sunitinib, pazopanib, and cabozantinib block specific molecules that fuel cancer growth.
• Immunotherapy: Helps the body’s immune system identify and destroy cancer cells using drugs like nivolumab and pembrolizumab.
• Radiation Therapy: Used for pain control or when surgery isn’t possible.
• Chemotherapy: Less effective in most kidney cancers but used for certain subtypes such as sarcomatoid variants.

After surgery or therapy, patients undergo regular follow-up to monitor kidney function and detect recurrence early.

PACE Hospitals provides:

• Personalized rehabilitation plans for faster recovery.
• Nutritional counseling to support kidney health.
• Regular imaging and lab tests for surveillance.
• Psychological support and lifestyle guidance for holistic healing.

• 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 among the top kidney cancer treatment centers in Hyderabad, known for ethical, transparent, and patient-focused care.

Department of Oncology | Urology | Nephrology