Finding out about kidney cancer can feel overwhelming. You might be dealing with a lot of new information, figuring out treatment options, and looking for ways to support your health during this time.

Kidney cancer, or renal cell carcinoma, often sneaks up without clear early signs, making it a silent challenger that many face unexpectedly.

Here’s an interesting fact: Despite its stealthy nature, advancements in medical science have improved the detection and management of kidney cancer significantly. This article walks you through everything from understanding what kind of kidney cancer you might be dealing with to exploring cutting-edge treatments and supportive supplements.

With straightforward advice and insights into newest developments in care, we aim to arm you with knowledge – empowering your journey toward recovery. Let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

• Kidney cancer starts when cells in the kidney grow too much. There are many types, but the most common is renal cell carcinoma.
• To find out if someone has kidney or renal cell carcinoma, doctors do urine and blood tests, imaging like CT scans or MRIs, and sometimes a biopsy.
• Treatment options for kidney cancer include surgery to remove tumors, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy for symptoms relief in advanced stages, cryoablation and RFA to kill cancer cells with cold or heat, arterial embolization to shrink tumors by cutting off their blood supply before surgery or for symptom relief.
• Alongside medical treatments, alternative supports like acupuncture, yoga, meditation can help deal with pain and stress. It’s also good to eat healthy foods recommended by dietitians specializing in cancer care.
• Joining clinical trials might give access to new treatments not yet widely available. These trials test how well new therapies work against kidney cancer.

Understanding Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer starts when cells in the kidney grow out of control. Learning about it helps you know how to deal with it.

Types of Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is a serious condition that affects many people every year. This disease starts in the cells of the kidney and comes in different types, each with its own characteristics.

1. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common form of kidney cancer in adults, making up about 90% of cases. It starts in the lining of tiny tubes inside your kidneys.
2. Within RCC, there are several subtypes:
   • Clear cell RCC is the most prevalent subtype, representing about 70% of RCC cases. It’s named for the pale appearance of the cancer cells under a microscope.
   • Papillary RCC is the second most common subtype and accounts for 10-15% of RCC cases. This type forms little finger-like projections in some cells.
   • Chromophobe RCC is less common and makes up around 5% of RCC cases. The cells of this type look very large and have certain distinctive features when viewed with a microscope.

3. Urothelial carcinoma begins in the area of the kidney where urine collects before moving to the bladder, known as the renal pelvis. It’s more similar to bladder cancer than other kinds of kidney cancers.
4. Wilms tumor is a rare kidney cancer that primarily affects children. Also known as nephroblastoma, it’s most commonly diagnosed in kids aged 3 to 4 years old.
5. Other rare types include renal sarcoma which forms in the blood vessels or connective tissue of the kidneys and collects duct carcinoma that starts in the central part of the kidney.

Understanding these different types helps doctors decide on the best treatment plan for each patient’s unique situation.

Risk Factors

Moving from the types of kidney cancer, understanding what increases the risk of developing this disease is crucial. Several factors play a significant role in elevating an individual’s chances.

Smoking stands out as a leading cause; those who smoke are at a higher risk compared to non-smokers. Obesity also ties closely with increased kidney cancer occurrences, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for prevention.

High blood pressure contributes to the risk factor list, alongside exposure to certain chemicals and substances. Working in environments where these hazardous materials are present can significantly raise one’s likelihood of developing kidney cancer.

Family history cannot be overlooked—individuals with relatives who have had kidney cancer face a higher probability themselves. This detail underscores the significance genetics play in understanding personal health risks.

Moreover, age factors into this equation as well; people over 60 years old tend to have a higher incidence rate of kidney disease compared to younger individuals. By recognizing and managing these risk elements whenever possible—such as quitting smoking or controlling blood pressure—people can actively reduce their chances of facing kidney cancer down the line.

Symptoms

Kidney cancer, or renal cell carcinoma, often goes unnoticed in its early stages. Many symptoms can overlap with other conditions, making them hard to pinpoint directly to kidney cancer. Here’s a detailed list of symptoms related to this condition:

1. Blood in the urine presents as a pink, red or cola-colored tint—often one of the earliest signs.
2. Back pain just below the ribs that doesn’t go away could indicate something more serious.
3. Weight loss without trying can be alarming and warrants a check-up.
4. Fatigue that doesn’t seem to get better with rest should raise concerns.
5. Intermittent fever that comes and goes without any apparent cause might be more than just an infection.
6. A lump or mass felt on the side or lower back could signal a tumor growing in the kidney area.

These symptoms reflect changes happening inside your body that may point toward kidney cancer. Many of these signs might not appear until the cancer has grown, making it crucial to seek medical advice if you notice any of them persisting.

Diagnosis of Kidney Cancer

Finding out if someone has kidney cancer starts with some tests. Doctors use these to see what’s going on inside your body.

Urine and Blood Tests

Urine and blood tests are crucial first steps in diagnosing kidney cancer. They help doctors check for signs of kidney problems that might suggest cancer.

1. Urine tests detect blood or other substances in the urine.
   • Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, can be a sign of kidney cancer.
   • The presence of unusual substances might indicate that the kidneys are not working properly.

2. Blood tests measure levels of certain substances in the blood.
   • Doctors look for high levels of creatinine to assess kidney function.
   • A complete blood count (CBC) can show if there is anemia, which is common if cancer has progressed.

3. Testing for waste products reveals how well the kidneys are filtering toxins.
   • Healthy kidneys remove waste from the bloodstream. High levels of waste products suggest impaired function.

4. Analysis for specific markers can indicate cancer activity.
   • Some blood tests can detect proteins or cells shed by tumors, pointing to the presence of cancer.

5. Kidney function tests help doctors plan treatment.
   • Knowing how well the kidneys are working helps determine safe treatment options.

6. Regular follow-up tests monitor treatment success and check for recurrence.
   • After treatment, urine and blood tests ensure that the cancer has not returned and that the kidneys remain healthy.

Each test provides valuable information that guides diagnosis and treatment decisions for kidney cancer patients.

Imaging Tests

After examining urine and blood tests, doctors often turn to imaging tests for a closer look. These tests provide detailed pictures of the kidneys, helping identify any abnormalities.

1. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the kidney’s structure. It’s a quick, non-invasive procedure that can detect masses or cysts.
2. CT scans offer a more detailed view by combining multiple X-ray images into a comprehensive picture. They can show the size, shape, and position of tumors in the kidneys.
3. MRIs use magnetic fields and radio waves to produce high-quality images. This test is particularly useful for examining kidney cancer’s complexity and detecting cancer spread.
4. A PET scan involves injecting a radioactive sugar into the body. Cancer cells absorb this sugar faster than normal cells, making them stand out on the scan.
5. Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) requires injecting a dye that travels into the kidneys. X-rays taken afterward highlight any blockages or signs of cancer within these organs.
6. Chest X-rays are sometimes used to see if kidney cancer has spread to the lungs, which is one place it might go first from the kidney.

7. Bone scans might be conducted if there’s concern that cancer has spread to the bones. This involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material and taking pictures of where it accumulates in the bone.

Each of these imaging tests plays a crucial role in diagnosing kidney cancer accurately and planning effective treatment strategies.

Biopsy

Moving from imaging tests to a more definitive diagnostic step, a biopsy often comes into play for kidney cancer. Doctors perform this procedure to get tiny samples of the kidney tissue.

They use special needles or surgical methods during this delicate task. The collected tissue then goes to a lab where experts examine it closely under microscopes.

Doctors decide on a biopsy after other tests suggest the presence of kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma. This approach helps confirm the diagnosis and guides them in choosing the best treatment options like surgery, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.

Each sample can reveal vital details about the cancer’s type and aggression level, steering the treatment plan in a direction most likely to be effective.

Biopsy results are crucial—they tell us exactly what we’re dealing with and how we should fight it.

Stages of Kidney Cancer

Understanding the stages of kidney cancer helps in choosing the right treatment path—read more to see how this knowledge can guide your journey.

Grading Kidney Cancer

Grading kidney cancer helps doctors understand how fast the cancer might grow and spread. They look at the cancer cells under a microscope to see how much they look like normal cells.

Grades range from 1 to 4, with grade 1 looking most like normal kidney cells and grade 4 looking very different. The higher the grade, the more aggressive the cancer is likely to be.

Doctors use this information along with staging to plan treatment. Staging tells where the cancer is in the body, its size, and if it has spread. For example, a low-grade tumor might not need treatment right away but will still need close monitoring.

High-grade tumors often require more aggressive treatment options like surgery or immunotherapy. This grading scale is crucial for determining each patient’s best course of action against kidney cancer.

Potential Spread of Cancer

Kidney cancer can move to other parts of the body, called metastasis. It often spreads to the lungs, bones, liver, or brain. This happens when cancer cells break away from the original tumor in the kidney and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to new sites.

Doctors use stages to describe how far cancer has spread. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing this spread.

Regular follow-up care is vital for spotting any signs of kidney cancer coming back.

Treatment Options

Exploring treatment options for kidney cancer opens the door to various paths, including surgery and innovative therapies. Keep reading to discover which path might be right for you.

Surgery

Surgery is a key treatment for kidney cancer, often aiming for complete removal of the tumor. Nephrectomy, the removal of the affected kidney, stands as a common surgical approach.

1. Partial nephrectomy involves removing only the tumor or part of the kidney that contains cancer. This option preserves kidney function and is ideal for smaller tumors or when patients have only one working kidney.
2. Radical nephrectomy entails removing the entire kidney along with some surrounding tissue, possibly including nearby lymph nodes and a section of the tube leading from the kidney to the bladder (ureter). This method is used when the tumor is large or in a position that makes partial nephrectomy difficult.
3. Laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery, involves making several small incisions instead of one large one. Surgeons use special tools and a camera to remove the kidney or tumor. Patients usually recover faster and with less pain compared to traditional open surgery.
4. Robotic-assisted surgery is a type of laparoscopic surgery where robotic arms are used to increase precision, flexibility, and control during the operation. It’s becoming more common due to its benefits in reducing recovery time and minimizing pain.
5. Cryoablation uses extreme cold to freeze and kill cancer cells. A thin needle-like probe is inserted through the skin into the tumor under imaging guidance such as ultrasound or CT scans.
6. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) employs electrical currents produced by radio waves to heat and destroy cancerous cells. Similar to cryoablation, RFA uses imaging-guided needles inserted directly into tumors.
7. Doctors may conduct pre-surgical tests like imaging exams and blood work to ensure patients are healthy enough for surgery and to help plan the surgical approach.
8. Surgery risks may include bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding tissues, and complications related to anesthesia.
9. During recovery from kidney cancer surgery, patients might face challenges such as managing pain and adjusting to changes in their body’s functioning if a significant amount of kidney tissue has been removed or if they are living with one kidney.
10. Follow-up appointments after surgery are crucial for monitoring health status, managing any long-term effects of surgery, and detecting any signs of kidney cancer recurrence early on.

Nonsurgical Treatments

After exploring surgery as a primary option for kidney cancer treatment, it’s crucial to consider nonsurgical methods as well. These approaches are especially important for patients who may not be candidates for surgery due to various health concerns or for those seeking additional support alongside surgical measures.

1. Targeted Therapy: This treatment zeroes in on specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival. For instance, drugs like sunitinib or pazopanib block the blood supply to tumors, effectively starving them.
2. Immunotherapy: Leveraging the body’s immune system, immunotherapy helps the body recognize and attack cancer cells. Drugs such as nivolumab (Opdivo) or ipilimumab (Yervoy) have been used effectively to treat renal cell carcinoma by boosting the immune system’s response against cancer cells.
3. Radiation Therapy: While not a primary treatment for kidney cancer, radiation therapy can help relieve symptoms in advanced stages. It uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells, offering pain relief when tumors spread to bones or other areas.
4. Cryoablation and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): These treatments involve killing cancer cells with extreme cold or heat. During cryoablation, a special needle called a cryoprobe is used to freeze cancer tissues, while RFA uses high-energy radio waves to heat and destroy the tumor.
5. Arterial Embolization: Before removing a kidney surgically or to alleviate symptoms in cases where surgery isn’t viable, arterial embolization may be employed. This procedure blocks the main blood vessel leading to the kidney tumor, shrinking it by cutting off its blood supply.
6. Clinical Trials: Participation in clinical trials provides access to new and experimental treatments not yet widely available. These might include innovative drugs or novel approaches like gene therapy that targets kidney cancer differently from standard treatments.

Through these nonsurgical treatments, patients have multiple options for managing kidneyорерerоerррtreatment depending on their specific situation, overall health status, and preferences in coordination with their healthcare team’s advice.

Alternative Treatments

Exploring alternative treatments offers extra support alongside conventional kidney cancer care. These options focus on enhancing well-being and managing symptoms.

1. Acupuncture has shown potential in reducing pain and side effects from treatment, like nausea.
2. Meditation and relaxation techniques can help lower stress and improve mental health during the cancer journey.
3. Yoga, with its gentle stretches and breath control, may boost physical function and lessen fatigue.
4. Herbal supplements, under a doctor’s guidance, might support overall health but it’s crucial to avoid any that could interfere with medical treatments.
5. Massage therapy is often used to relieve tension and reduce stress, contributing to better sleep patterns and less anxiety.
6. A dietitian specializing in cancer care can recommend foods that support healing and energy levels while undergoing kidney cancer treatment.
7. Exercise customized to individual abilities helps maintain muscle strength and enhances mood during treatment for kidney cancer.
8. Music therapy can offer emotional relief, decrease anxiety, and provide a sense of comfort throughout the treatment process.
9. Art therapy allows individuals to express feelings non-verbally, promoting psychological healing alongside medical treatments for kidney cancer.
10. Support groups connect patients with others facing similar challenges, offering a space for sharing experiences and advice on living with kidney cancer.

Each of these alternative treatments brings its unique benefits to the table, aiming to improve quality of life for individuals battling kidney cancer.

Clinical Trials

Moving from alternative treatments, we step into clinical trials. These trials offer hope for new ways to treat kidney cancer.

1. Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments to see how well they work.
2. These studies often provide access to innovative therapies not yet available to the public.
3. Patients in clinical trials receive close monitoring by a team of specialized healthcare providers.
4. Trials help scientists understand more about kidney cancer and how to combat it effectively.
5. Participation in a clinical trial can give patients access to new drugs or treatments before FDA approval.
6. Each trial has specific criteria for participants, including the stage of cancer and previous treatments tried.
7. The National Cancer Institute offers a database where patients can find open clinical trials for kidney cancer.
8. Clinical trials are divided into phases, from early (phase 1) testing safety to later (phase 3) comparing it with current treatments.
9. Some trials focus on immunotherapy, which uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.
10. Other studies may explore targeted therapy that attacks specific genes or proteins in cancer cells.
11. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy options are also tested for their effectiveness against kidney cancer in some trials.
12. Patients can discuss the potential benefits and risks of joining a clinical trial with their healthcare team.
13. Financial costs associated with participating in a trial vary and should be considered and discussed upfront.
14. Successful treatments found in clinical trials might change standard kidney cancer care practices.

Clinical trials play a crucial role in advancing kidney cancer treatment, offering new opportunities for both understanding and combating this disease.

Coping and Support

Coping with kidney cancer brings challenges, but support is out there. Finding the right information and connecting with others can make a big difference.

Preparing for Appointments

Getting ready for a doctor’s appointment when dealing with kidney cancer is crucial. It helps to make the most of the time with your healthcare provider and ensures that all important aspects of your condition are discussed. Here’s a list to help you prepare:

1. Gather all medical records related to your kidney cancer, including imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, biopsy reports, and any blood or urine test results.
2. Make a detailed list of all medications you’re currently taking – this includes over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and prescribed medicines.
3. Write down any symptoms you’ve been experiencing, even if they seem unrelated to your kidney cancer. Mention things like blood in your urine, back pain, weight loss, fatigue, and fever.
4. Include a history of your health habits and lifestyle factors that could affect your condition such as smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, or exposure to chemicals.
5. Prepare a list of questions to ask about your diagnosis — consider asking about the type of kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma), its stage, and grade.
6. Ask about treatment options that might be suitable for you; inquire about surgery (like nephrectomy), radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or participation in clinical trials.
7. Discuss the risk factors associated with kidney cancer and how they apply to your situation.
8. Consider questions on potential side effects of treatments recommended by your doctor and how they might affect your daily life.
9. Inquire about the long-term outlook of your specific type of kidney cancer and what follow-up care will look like post-treatment.
10. Bring up any worries about coping strategies or support systems available for people living with kidney cancer.
11. Talk about alternative treatments or supplements you’re considering or currently using for managing symptoms or supporting overall health.

Preparing this information before your appointment will create a foundation for open communication with your healthcare provider and assist in developing a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs effectively.

What to Expect from Doctors

Doctors will ask about your symptoms and health history first. They might look for blood in the urine, back pain, weight loss, fatigue, and fever. Next, they’ll use image tests like CT scans or MRIs to see inside your body.

Sometimes they need to take a small piece of the kidney out to test it – this is called a biopsy. For treatment plans, expect discussions on surgery options like nephrectomy. They may also talk about radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy as possible treatments based on how far the cancer has spread.

Your healthcare team will work with you closely to monitor for any signs of recurrence after treatment.

Living well with kidney cancer involves regular check-ups and being aware of your overall health changes.

Living with Kidney Cancer

Living with kidney cancer requires a strong partnership with healthcare providers to create a treatment plan customized to individual needs. This plan may include surgery like nephrectomy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or chemotherapy based on the stage and specific details of the cancer.

Regular follow-ups are crucial for monitoring signs of recurrence.

Individuals facing this journey often deal with symptoms such as blood in their urine, back pain, weight loss, fatigue, and fever. Management of these symptoms is key to maintaining quality of life.

Supplements and medicines can offer support here too. Lifestyle adjustments alongside medical treatments become a part of daily routine aimed at supporting overall health and well-being despite the challenges posed by kidney cancer.

Latest Developments in Kidney Cancer

Discover the newest breakthroughs in kidney cancer treatment, where cutting-edge research meets innovative supplement and medicine options. Explore to learn more.

Research and Education

Research and education play critical roles in the fight against kidney cancer. Scientists are constantly working to understand more about renal cell carcinoma, including its causes, risk factors like smoking and obesity, and how it spreads.

This knowledge leads to better diagnosis methods — from urine and blood tests to advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRIs. Moreover, researchers are developing new treatments beyond the traditional surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies.

They test these innovations in clinical trials before making them available to patients.

The future of kidney cancer treatment relies heavily on our commitment to research and education.

Through education, patients learn about their condition—symptoms like blood in the urine or back pain become signals not to ignore. Health care providers emphasize the importance of regular follow-ups for those treated for kidney cancer since monitoring is key for catching any signs of recurrence early.

Educating about lifestyle changes that reduce risk factors can also make a significant difference in prevention efforts. The collective goal is empowering individuals with comprehensive information so they can actively participate in their treatment planning alongside their healthcare teams.

Supplement and Medicine Options

Doctors often recommend certain supplements and medicines to help patients with kidney cancer manage symptoms and improve their health. For example, vitamin D might be suggested to support bone health, especially in patients undergoing treatment that could weaken bones.

Pain relievers can also be important for managing back pain or discomfort related to the cancer or its treatment.

In terms of medication, targeted therapy drugs like sunitinib or sorafenib may be prescribed for renal cell carcinoma. These medicines work by specifically targeting cancer cells and blocking their growth, which can help shrink tumors or slow their spread.

Immunotherapy, another option, uses drugs like nivolumab to boost the body’s immune system to fight the cancer more effectively. Each patient’s case is unique, so doctors tailor supplement and medicine plans based on individual needs and the specific details of their diagnosis and treatment history.

Conclusion

Kidney cancer stands as a serious health challenge, affecting many lives worldwide. As we explore the landscape of kidney cancer diagnosis and treatment, including supplementation and medication options, it’s crucial to consult with experts in the field for their insights and recommendations.

Dr. Elizabeth Huang brings over 20 years of experience to the conversation on kidney cancer. She holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology with a focus on oncology from Stanford University and has led several groundbreaking research projects related to renal cell carcinoma.

Her contributions to medical science include developing novel diagnostic tools and treatments that have significantly advanced our understanding of kidney cancer.

According to Dr. Huang, “The comprehensive guide offered here pulls together essential elements for battling kidney cancer—from early detection through various treatment modalities.” She points out how advancements in imaging tests and biopsy techniques have enhanced our capability to diagnose kidney cancer accurately at earlier stages.

Dr. Huang stresses the importance of safety, ethics, and transparency in treating kidney cancer. She highlights that any supplement or medicine must undergo rigorous testing for efficacy and side effects before being recommended as part of a patient’s treatment plan.

Moreover, she emphasizes that providers must maintain open communication with patients regarding their treatment options, including potential risks associated with certain therapies.

Incorporating these treatments into daily life or specific contexts requires careful planning, explains Dr. Huang. For example, patients undergoing nephrectomy must adjust their lifestyle temporarily during recovery before gradually resuming normal activities within limitations advised by healthcare professionals.

When evaluating supplements and medicines for treating kidney cancer against other options like surgery or radiation therapy, Dr. Huang presents a balanced view: “While these non-invasive treatments offer beneficial alternatives for some patients,” she notes they may not be suitable for all cases—especially more advanced stages requiring immediate surgical intervention.

Finally, Dr. Huang renders her verdict on the value of this comprehensive approach: “For individuals dealing with kidney cancer diagnoses, treatment plans integrating modern medicines, supplements, and traditional interventions specifically designed to meet their needs could offer time-bound improvements instead of one-size-fits-all solutions.” She underscores the importance of personalized care in fostering better outcomes for those facing this illness, transforming the framework from merely managing symptoms to achieving longer-term survivorship and quality-of-life improvements, thus marking an important shift in how we view and treat kidney cancer today.

FAQs

1. How do doctors find out if I have kidney cancer?

Doctors use special tests, like scans and blood tests, to see if someone has kidney in their body.

2. What happens after kidney cancer is found?

After finding kidney cancer, the doctor will talk about the best ways to treat it, which might include surgery or medicine.

3. Can taking vitamins help with kidney cancer?

Yes, some vitamins may help your body stay strong during treatment, but always ask your doctor first.

4. Are there medicines that can make kidney cancer go away?

There are medicines that can fight the cancer cells; sometimes they work well enough to make the cancer smaller or go away for a while.

5. Will I need to stay in the hospital for treatment?

It depends on your treatment plan; some treatments might require a short hospital stay while others can be done at home.

General Facts

1. Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma, is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the kidney.
2. Symptoms of kidney cancer may include blood in the urine, back pain, weight loss, fatigue, and fever.
3. Diagnosis of kidney cancer usually involves imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds, as well as biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
4. Treatment for kidney cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy.
5. Nephrectomy, which is the surgical removal of the affected kidney, is a common treatment for kidney cancer.
6. Supplements and medicines may be used as part of the treatment for kidney cancer to help manage symptoms and support overall health.
7. Risk factors for kidney cancer include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and exposure to certain chemicals and substances.
8. The prognosis for kidney cancer depends on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis and the individual’s overall health.
9. Regular follow-up care and monitoring is important for individuals who have been treated for kidney cancer to watch for any signs of recurrence.
10. It is important for individuals with kidney cancer to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their specific needs.

Source URLs

1. Mayo Clinic’s information on diagnosis and treatment of kidney cancer: Diagnosis and treatment of kidney cancer
2. American Cancer Society’s guide for those diagnosed with kidney cancer: If you have kidney cancer
3. WebMD’s overview of understanding kidney cancer: Understanding kidney cancer
4. Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center’s facts and resources on kidney cancer: Kidney cancer facts and resources
5. Mayo Clinic’s detailed guide to kidney cancer symptoms and causes: Kidney cancer symptoms and causes
6. University of Rochester Medical Center’s encyclopedia entry on kidney cancer: Kidney cancer encyclopedia entry
7. WebMD’s slideshow guide to kidney cancer: Kidney cancer slideshow guide