Clinical trials play an important role in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. For some patients, taking part may offer access to new therapies that are not yet widely available. Your care team can help determine whether a clinical trial may be an option and explain what participation involves.
What is Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in the kidney and form a tumor. Over time, these changes can affect how the kidney works and how the body filters waste from the blood.
The most common type of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma. It often does not cause noticeable symptoms early on, which means it may be discovered during imaging or testing for another health concern. If you or a loved one has concerns, LifeBridge Health’s cancer specialists can explain what a diagnosis might entail, review treatment options and guide your next steps with care.
Kidney Cancer Symptoms
When symptoms of kidney cancer do appear, they may include:
- Blood in the urine
- Pain or pressure in the lower back or side
- A lump or mass in the abdomen or side
- Ongoing fatigue
- Unintended weight loss
- Unexplained fever
How Kidney Cancer is Diagnosed
Kidney cancer may be discovered through imaging or testing done for symptoms or another health concern. In any case, your care team uses a combination of tests to confirm a diagnosis and plan next steps.
Blood and Urine Tests
Blood and urine tests assess kidney function and overall health. While they do not diagnose kidney cancer on their own, they help rule out other conditions and support the full evaluation.
Imaging Tests
Ultrasound, CT scans or MRI are commonly used to examine the kidneys. These tests help identify the size and location of a tumor and determine whether it may have spread.
Biopsy
In some cases, a small sample of kidney tissue may be taken and examined under a microscope.
Kidney Cancer Treatment Options
Your care team works together across disciplines to recommend treatment options based on your cancer type, location, stage, overall health and personal preferences. These options might include:
Surgery
Surgery is the most common treatment for kidney cancer. Your surgeon may advise removing the tumor alone (partial nephrectomy) or the entire kidney (radical nephrectomy).
Ablation Therapies
Treatments such as cryoablation (freezing) or radiofrequency ablation (heating) may be used when surgery is not the best option.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy focuses on specific parts of cancer cells that help them grow. This approach helps limit damage to healthy tissue.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses medication to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It may be used after surgery or for more advanced kidney cancers.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It may be used in place of surgery or to manage symptoms.
Clinical Trials
Supportive Services
When you receive cancer care at LifeBridge Health, you have access to supportive services like counseling, integrative therapies and support groups. These resources are designed to help patients care for their physical and emotional well‑being throughout treatment and beyond.