What is Renal Cell Carcinoma?
Renal cell carcinoma is a common type of kidney cancer and accounts for approximately 90-95% of kidney cancers. It develops from the lining of the proximal convoluted tubule. The proximal convoluted tubule is the part of the kidney’s nephron (the main building block of the kidney) that reabsorbs various ions such as sodium, sugar, chloride, and water back into the capillaries and blood.Disease Epidemiology
It is the 6th most common cancer in the United States, and its incidence in Europe has declined in several decades thanks to a reduction in cigarette smoking. The average age at which the disease is diagnosed is 64, but few cases have been reported in younger peopleDisease Etiology
Certain genetic mutations, obesity, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, and exposure to certain environmental chemicals such as trichloroethylene, benzene, benzidine, cadmium, pesticides, and vinyl chloride are risk factors for developing renal cell carcinoma.Signs and Symptoms
In most cases, there are no symptoms, and cancer or renal tumour is detected on the occasional radiologic examination. In advance cases, the patient may develop the following signs and symptoms. These are- Pain in the loin
- Passage of blood or blood particles in the urine
- A palpable mass in the loin or abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- High blood pressure
- Fever
- Lethargy
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Imaging techniques like CT-abdomen and pelvis, USG abdomen and pelvis, MRI, CT-chest, and X-ray to assess the site, size, extent, and distant metastasis of the tumour.
- Renal arteriography ( Ultrasonography of the main artery of the kidney)
- Venography
- CT-scan and MRI brain to detect the distant metastasis of the tumour
Treatment
Surgical removal of the tumour, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, thermal ablation, and immunotherapy are the main treatment options.What Support can we Give for Renal Cell Carcinoma?
Renal Cell Carcinoma is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Renal Cell Carcinoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
