What is Small Cell Carcinoma of the Renal Pelvis?
Small cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis is a rare type of tumor that usually develops in the 6th decade of life in the central region of the kidney called the renal pelvis. Small cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis can also have properties of tumors that originate from the hormone-secreting nerve cells called neuroendocrine cells. Small cell cancers are rare types of cancers that can originate from any part of the body but usually from the lungs. Small cell cancer has the ability to grow rapidly and spread to other distant parts of the body.
What is renal pelvis?
The renal pelvis is the site of the kidney where all urine is collected, then filtered through it, and through the ureters collects into the bladder. Small cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis is more common in women than in men.
Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause; however certain hereditary and genetic mutations (a change in the sequence of DNA or genetic material) are considered potential causes for the development of small cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis. Cigarette smoking and chronic inflammation of the kidneys are also contributing risk factors for the development of small cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Pain in the back
- Mass on side of the back
- Blood in the urine
- Frequent desire to pass urine
- Pain while passing urine
- Unintentional weight loss
- Constant Fever
- Constant Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are
- Blood tests such as Complete blood count (CBC)
- Urine complete examination (Urine test)
- Diagnostic imaging techniques such as USG, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan can be used to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumor.
- Tumor biopsy
Treatment
Surgical excision (surgical removal of the tumor along with the removal of some surrounding healthy tissues) is the main treatment option. Other treatment options are chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
What Support can we Give for Small Cell Carcinoma of the Renal Pelvis?
Small Cell Carcinoma of the Renal Pelvis is 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 Small Cell Carcinoma of the Renal Pelvis, 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:
