Introduction

Kidney cancer,also called renal cancer,is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK.

It usually affects adults in their 60s or70s and is rare in people under 50.

It can often be cured if it's caught early. But a cure probably won't be possible if it's not diagnosed until after it has spread beyond the kidney.

There are several types of kidney cancer. These pages focus on the most common type renal cell carcinoma. The Cancer Research UK website has more information about other types of kidney cancer .

This page covers:

Symptoms

When to get medical advice

Causes

Treatment

Outlook

Symptoms of kidney cancer

In many cases, there are no obvious symptoms at first and kidney cancer may only be picked up during tests carried out for another reason.

If symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Urine, blood in the you may notice your pee is darker than normal or reddish in colour
  • a persistent pain in your lower back or side, just below your ribs
  • a lump or swelling in your side (although kidney cancer is often too small to feel)

Some small, slow growing cancers may not need treatment at first.

A cure isn't usually possible if the cancer has spread, although treatment can sometimes help keep it under control. Some people become ill quickly, but others may live for several years and feel well despite their cancer.

Overall, around 7 in every 10 people live at least a year after diagnosis and around 5 in 10 live at least 10 years.

Cancer Research UKhas more information about survival statistics for kidney cancer .


Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dez 2016