MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is a growth of cancer cells in a kidney. It is often found by chance on scans, and early tumours can frequently be treated successfully with surgery.
Causes & risk factors
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Long-standing high blood pressure
- Family history or inherited syndromes
- Long-term dialysis
Common symptoms
- Blood in urine
- Persistent back or side pain
- A lump in the side or abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
- Tiredness
- Persistent fever
Tests & diagnosis
- Ultrasound of the kidneys
- CT or MRI scan
- Urine test
- CBC
- Creatinine
Treatment & management
- Surgery to remove the tumour or the kidney
- Minimally invasive options for small tumours
- Targeted or immune therapies for advanced disease
- Active monitoring of very small tumours in some patients
- Regular follow-up scans
When to see a doctor urgently
- Blood in the urine
- A persistent lump or pain in the side
- Unexplained weight loss with tiredness and fever
- An incidental kidney mass found on a scan
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about kidney cancer. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How is kidney cancer often found?
Many are discovered by chance on an ultrasound or CT done for another reason, before symptoms appear. Early detection improves the chances of cure.
Can you live with one kidney after surgery?
Yes. Most people function well with one healthy kidney. Where possible, surgeons remove only the tumour to preserve kidney tissue.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.