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Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma, is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys. The incidence rate of kidney cancer in Hong Kong varies over time. According to the Hong Kong Cancer Registry, new cases of kidney cancer diagnosed accounting for approximately 3% of all newly diagnosed cancers in Hong Kong. It is one of top ten most common cancers in Hong Kong.

(Special thanks to Dr. Michael KAM, Associate Consultant, Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital for reviewing the information of this page.)

1
Several risk factors can increase the chance of developing kidney cancer and some patients with rare inherited conditions are prone to develop kidney cancer. These include:
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • Family history: A family history of kidney cancer can increase an individual's risk.
  • Occupational exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals or substances like asbestos or print solvent may increase the risk.
  • Chronic kidney disease: especially for those undergoing dialysis
2
It is not always possible to prevent kidney cancer, but certain measures can help to reduce the risk:
 
  • Quit smoking
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Manage blood pressure
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy lifestyle
3
In the early stages, kidney cancer may not produce noticeable symptoms. Some patients may develop symptoms when the disease has spread to other organs. Common symptoms can include:
Local:
  • Blood in urine (hematuria)
  • Loin pain
General
  • Fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
If spreading to others organ:
  • Bone pain (bone)
  • Shortness of breath (lung)
  • Abdominal pain and yellowish of skin (liver)
4
If kidney cancer is suspected, the following diagnostic tests may be performed:
  • Imaging tests: These include ultrasound, CT scan, or PET-CT to visualize the kidneys and detect any abnormalities at lymph nodes and other organs.
  • Blood tests: Blood tests can measure kidney function, cell counts and detect other abnormalities.
  • Biopsy: A tissue sample from the kidney may be obtained through a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
5
The treatment options for kidney cancer depend on various factors, such as the stage and extent of the cancer. Common treatment modalities include:
 
  • Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor and affected kidney (partial or radical nephrectomy) is often the primary treatment for localized kidney cancer.
  • Percutaneous ablation: For those who are not fit for operation and with usually small tumours.
  • Targeted therapy: Medications that target on cancer cells or their associated environment may be used to treat advanced or metastatic kidney cancer.
  • Immunotherapy: Drugs that help the body's immune system to fight cancer cells are used in some cases.
  • Radiation therapy: In certain situations, radiation therapy may be employed to and destroy cancer cells and improve symptoms
6
The complications of kidney cancer treatment can vary depending on the specific treatment modality used.
  • Surgical complications: Surgical procedures carry risks such as infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding organs.
  • Side effects of targeted therapy: These may include fatigue, nausea, diarrhoea, reduced appetite, rash, nail reaction, hypertension, frothy urine.
  • Immunotherapy-related side effects: Immunotherapy can lead to immune-related adverse events such as fatigue skin rashes, diarrhea, and inflammation of organs.
7
It is important to
  • consult with healthcare professionals specializing in kidney cancer for advice
  • follow the treatment plan, ensure drug compliance and attend follow-up appointments.
  • provide emotional and psychological support to the patient and their family
  • maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
  • avoid raw or undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, seafood, raw or unpasteurized dairy products, and ready-to-eat raw vegetables.
help manage treatment side effects by providing support and seek for medical attention early if severe side effects develop.
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