What is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, originates in the kidneys, the two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine. It typically begins in the cells lining the small tubes within the kidneys. At Urology Specialists of Georgia, we offer comprehensive care and advanced treatments to manage and treat kidney cancer effectively, improving patients’ overall health and quality of life.

Symptoms of Kidney Cancer

• Blood in the Urine (Hematuria): Urine may appear pink, red, or cola-colored.
• Persistent Back Pain: Pain on one side of the lower back.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without trying.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.
• Fever: Recurring fever not caused by an infection.
• Loss of Appetite: Decreased interest in eating.

Risk Factors for Kidney Cancer

• Smoking: Increases the risk of developing kidney cancer.
• Obesity: Excess weight can contribute to changes in hormones that increase the risk.
• High Blood Pressure: Hypertension is a known risk factor.
• Family History: A family history of kidney cancer can increase risk.
• Chronic Kidney Disease: Patients with long-term kidney disease are at higher risk.
• Exposure to Certain Chemicals: Such as asbestos, cadmium, and certain herbicides.

How is Kidney Cancer Diagnosed?

• Physical Examination: Initial examination to check for signs of kidney cancer.
• Urine Tests: To detect blood and other abnormalities in the urine.
• Blood Tests: To assess kidney function and overall health.
• Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds to visualize the kidneys and identify tumors.
• Biopsy: A sample of kidney tissue is taken and examined for cancer cells.

Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer

• Surgery:
  • Radical Nephrectomy: Removal of the entire kidney, adrenal gland, and surrounding tissue.
  • Partial Nephrectomy: Removal of the tumor and a small margin of healthy tissue, sparing the rest of the kidney.
• Ablation Techniques:
  • Cryoablation: Freezing cancer cells to kill them.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Using high-energy radio waves to heat and destroy cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cells while sparing normal cells.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
• Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells, often used for metastasized cancer.
• Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells, typically used when cancer has spread beyond the kidneys.

Why Choose Urology Specialists of Georgia for Kidney Cancer Treatment?

• Expertise: Our urologists are highly skilled in diagnosing and treating kidney cancer using the latest techniques and technologies.
• Comprehensive Care: We offer a full spectrum of care, from initial diagnosis to advanced treatments and post-operative follow-up.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor our treatment plans to meet the specific needs of each patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care.

I felt completely at ease with the staff at Urology Specialists of Georgia. Their professionalism and compassion made all the difference in my recovery.

– Mary S.

The care I received at Urology Specialists of Georgia was exceptional. The team was knowledgeable and supportive, helping me navigate my treatment options and improving my quality of life.

– John D.