CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
There are two main types of kidney cancer. The most common are renal cell cancers (RCC) and the second most common type are transitional cell cancers (TCC). Kidney cancer usually only affects one kidney, but rarely it can affect both kidneys. Kidney cancer is more common in men than women, and the risk of developing it increases with age.
Renal cell cancer
The most common type of kidney cancer is known as renal cell adenocarcinoma or hypernephroma. There are different types of renal cell adenocarcinoma. The most common type is clear cell renal cancer.
Transitional cell cancer of the kidney or ureter
This starts in cells called transitional cells of the renal pelvis. This is the part of the kidney where urine collects before it goes down to the ureter to the bladder. This cancer is rare.
Wilms’ tumour
Also known as nephroblastoma, this is a type of kidney cancer that mostly affects children. It is most common in children under five but sometimes can appear in older children and adults.
Smoking, obesity, hypertension, family history, chronic kidney disease, and certain genetic conditions increase the risk.
Kidney cancer is often asymptomatic in the early stages but common symptoms can include haematuria, flank pain, and a palpable mass. Non-specific symptoms may include fatigue, weight loss, fever, and anaemia.
Surgery is the most common treatment for kidney cancer. It may involve removing the tumor (partial nephrectomy) or the entire kidney (radical nephrectomy).
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.