Renal cancer, also known as cancer of the kidney, is a serious medical condition that can be fatal if not treated promptly and aggressively. There are several different types of renal cancer treatment available, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Several different types of surgical intervention are also available if more invasive renal cancer treatment becomes necessary.
Radiation therapy may be used as a form of renal cancer treatment. This type of therapy uses radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink the size of tumors. Some normal cells may be destroyed during this type of treatment as well. Potential side effects of radiation therapy include fatigue, itching, and urinary disturbances.
Chemotherapy is a commonly used renal cancer treatment option. This treatment involves the use of various chemicals designed to stop the growth of cancer cells. Some of the possible side effects of chemotherapy include abdominal pain, breathing problems, or organ damage.
Immunotherapy is sometimes used as a renal cancer treatment method. This type of treatment is designed to strengthen the immune system so that the body has a greater chance of successfully battling the cancer. Many patients will not experience any adverse side effects from this type of therapy. Others may experience mild symptoms such as itching or skin irritation around the area of the injection. Less common side effects include bruising, significant swelling, or varying degrees of allergic responses.
Surgical intervention may sometimes be indicated as a form of renal cancer treatment. There are several types of surgical operations that can be used, depending on the stage of the disease, how far the disease has spread, and the overall health of the patient.
A partial nephrectomy is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the affected kidney is removed in an attempt to remove cancerous tissue before it has a chance to spread to the entire kidney or other areas of the body. A total nephrectomy, or complete removal of the affected kidney, may be indicated in some cases. A radical nephrectomy involves the surgical removal of the affected kidney as well as the adrenal gland and the surrounding lymph nodes. In situations where both kidneys are not working properly or need to be removed, kidney dialysis may become necessary in order to filter waste materials from the blood. The patient will usually then be placed on a waiting list for a kidney transplant.
