It is an abnormal cell growth in the kidney tissue. This growth usually appears as a mass or tumor. It can be benign or malignant. Malignant tumors can lead to kidney cancer. Kidney tumor usually does not cause symptoms. In advanced stages, pain, bleeding or a mass may be felt. Imaging and biopsy methods are used for diagnosis. Treatment is done with surgery or other methods.
What are the symptoms of kidney tumors?
The appearance of blood in the urine is one of the most common symptoms. The amount of blood can sometimes be seen with the naked eye. Sometimes it is only detected during microscopic examinations. Constant or intermittent pain can be felt in the area where the kidneys are located, on the sides of the back. A palpable swelling or mass in the abdomen is a symptom that can occur in the advanced stage. Rapid weight loss without cause, kidney tumor It is a common symptom in types of cancer such as.
Due to the effect of the tumor on metabolism, loss of appetite and consequent loss of energy may occur. General weakness, feeling tired and decreased performance are common symptoms. Unexplained and regularly rising fever may be due to the tumor. It can disrupt kidney function and cause changes in blood pressure and blood cell production. The presence of any of these symptoms, kidney tumor It can also be a sign of other health problems. However, it is important to see a health care provider when symptoms are noticed. Early diagnosis provides a great advantage in the treatment process.
What Causes Kidney Tumors?
Genetic factors in some people kidney tumor It plays an important role in the formation of kidney cancer. Individuals with a family history of kidney cancer or tumors are at higher risk. Genetic syndromes, such as Von Hippel-Lindau disease, in particular, can predispose to this condition. Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing tumors. The toxins in cigarettes can damage the kidneys and cause cell mutations. This is one of the main causes of tumor formation. Excess weight affects hormone levels in the body. It can contribute to the formation of tumors. Obesity impairs kidney function, creating a suitable environment for cancer cells to develop.
High blood pressure can put pressure on the kidneys and cause cell damage. Long-term use of hypertension medications can also increase the risk. Individuals working in certain occupations may be exposed to harmful substances. These chemicals can cause genetic changes in kidney cells, leading to tumor formation. In people with chronic kidney disease kidney tumor It is more common. Patients receiving long-term dialysis treatment are also at risk. It is more common in people over the age of 40. The risk is higher in men than in women. In cases where the immune system is weakened, the likelihood of cancer cells multiplying uncontrollably increases. This can trigger the development of a tumor.
How is Kidney Tumor Treated?
The most common treatment method is surgery. This treatment can be applied in different ways depending on the size and location of the tumor. Partial nephrectomy is the removal of only the tumor area. It is usually preferred for small and localized tumors. Radical nephrectomy is the removal of the entire kidney, the surrounding fat tissue, and sometimes the lymph nodes. It is applied to larger and spreading tumors. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is especially suitable for patients who cannot undergo surgery. Kidney tumor Cancer cells are destroyed by applying high-frequency electric current.
Targeted therapy aims to stop the growth and spread of cancer cells. The drugs used in this treatment target the vessels that feed the tumor. It is usually preferred in metastatic tumors. Immunotherapy is a treatment method that aims to fight cancer cells by strengthening the immune system. It can be applied in advanced stages of kidney cancer. Kidney tumor, Although it is less sensitive to chemotherapy than some other types of cancer, it can be used in some cases. It is especially recommended to be used in conjunction with other treatments. Radiotherapy is not usually the first choice. However, it can be used to control symptoms such as pain.
