Unsure of your kidney cancer treatment options? We’re here to guide you every step of the way. Consult with a specialist today.
At FEM Surgery, we offer a diverse range of kidney cancer treatment options. These include surgical and non surgical interventions. The choice of treatment depends on factors like the stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their personal preferences.
Kidney cancer often begins in the cells that line the small tubes within your kidneys. While the exact cause of kidney cancer is unknown, there are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing this disease:
The risk of kidney cancer seems to increase after the age of 60.
Smokers are more likely to develop kidney cancer than non-smokers.
People who are overweight have a higher risk of kidney cancer.
Hypertension increases the risk of kidney cancer.
Von Hippel-Lindau disease or other inherited conditions can increase the risk of kidney cancer.
Kidney cancer rarely causes signs or symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms might include:
Your specialist will start with a thorough medical history and physical examination before running diagnostic tests. These may include urine tests, blood tests, and imaging tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A biopsy, where a sample of kidney tissue is removed and tested for cancer cells, might also be performed. The combination of these tests helps to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of the cancer.
Several types of cancer can form in the kidneys. These include:
The most common type of kidney cancer in adults, originating in the lining of the proximal convoluted tubule, a part of the small tubes in the kidney.
Forms in the centre of the kidney, where the urine goes before it moves to the bladder.
A type of kidney cancer that is most often found in children.
A rare type of kidney cancer that originates in the connective tissue of the kidney.
A broad spectrum of kidney cancer treatments exist, each specifically tailored to address unique patient needs, disease stages, and overall health considerations.
Radical nephrectomy (complete kidney removal) and partial nephrectomy (removal of tumours and some surrounding tissue) are often used for kidney cancer treatments.
Uses drugs to target specific cancer cells, slowing or stopping their growth.
Strengthens the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells more effectively.
Uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
Eligibility for kidney cancer treatment is determined by a variety of factors including the type and stage of the cancer, overall health, potential side effects, and patient preference. Treatments can range from surgery to remove the kidney (nephrectomy), targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and in some cases, observation. Your doctor will provide a comprehensive assessment to determine the best course of treatment based on the individual’s unique circumstances.
Post-surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days before resuming normal activities within a few weeks. Systemic therapies might have varying recovery times due to potential side effects. Regular follow-ups will usually be scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and to detect any early signs of recurrence. Here are some tips to help boost optimal recovery time:
The cost of kidney cancer treatment can vary widely, contingent on the treatment type, length of hospital stay, and healthcare facility.
Dr Png is a United States fellowship-trained urologist who received his urology specialist board certification from Singapore. He is the first and only urologist in Singapore to be inducted into the Fellow, American College of Surgeons (FACS) after completing a minimally invasive surgery fellowship in the USA at the Indiana University School of Medicine, where he sub-specialised in robotic and laparoscopic surgery for urological cancers.
For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners.
Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.
We are committed to providing a one-stop experience, where you’ll receive a meticulous consultation and high-quality service in a comfortable environment.
Various factors including the stage and grade of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the type of treatment can affect the success rate of kidney cancer treatment.
Yes, many patients live with one kidney after radical nephrectomy. The remaining kidney enlarges to take up the function of the removed kidney. In a partial nephrectomy, only the cancerous part of the kidney is removed, preserving as much kidney function as possible.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle post-treatment can enhance recovery and overall well-being. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol intake. Regular physical activity, as recommended by your doctor, can also be beneficial.
Symptoms similar to the initial diagnosis, such as blood in urine, back pain, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue are indications of recurrence. Recurrences may sometimes be detected during routine follow-up tests before symptoms even appear. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to your doctor for immediate evaluation.
