Our kidneys are amongst the hardest working organs in the body. These two organs are responsible for filtering our blood and removing any waste material and excess water so that our bodies can remain in optimal health. When our kidneys are not functioning properly, this creates a toxic internal environment for our bodies that can result in numerous other health issues as a result.
Who is at Risk for Kidney Tumors?
The exact cause of kidney cancer and tumors are not known though research has indicated that there are some common risk factors. This includes:
- Obesity
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Long-term dialysis
- Occupational exposure
- Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome
It is also important to note that men are at higher risk for kidney cancer than women.
What are the Symptoms of a Kidney Tumor?
A kidney tumor may make itself known through a variety of symptoms:
- Blood in one’s urine (also known as hematuria)
- Pain in the side and back of one’s abdomen
- A lump that can be felt in the abdomen
- Swelling in one’s legs and ankles
Another common symptom is paraneoplastic syndrome. This causes an abnormal amount of hormones to be released by the kidney, which results in a number of other symptoms. These include:
- High blood pressure/hypertension
- Fatigue and malaise
- Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium)
- Night sweats
- Fevers
- Unexplained weight loss and/or loss of appetite
- An increase in red blood cell numbers
- Amyloidosis (an abnormal buildup of protein in the body’s tissues and organs)
Older individuals suffering from a kidney tumor may also suddenly find a large and visible swollen vein in his scrotum. He may also be suffering from Stauffer’s syndrome.
The Importance of Testing and Detection
Unlike other tissues and organs in our body, our kidneys have fewer nerves than most. The more spacious location of the kidneys also allows for tumors to grow larger. This means that it takes longer for individuals to notice any symptoms that may be a cause of concern. Unfortunately, this also means that individuals are often at advanced stages of the disease when they are diagnosed.
Prognosis of Kidney Tumors and Cancer
Kidney cancer is one of the 10 most common cancers in both men and women though the majority diagnosed with kidney cancer will not die from it. Detection and treatment are key factors for a positive long-term outcome.
