Munuaissyövät

Munuaissyövät, also known as kidney cancer, refers to the abnormal growth of cells within the kidney. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which originates in the lining of the tiny tubules in the kidneys that filter waste and fluid from the blood to produce urine. Other less common types of kidney cancer exist, including transitional cell carcinoma, which affects the renal pelvis where urine collects before passing to the bladder, and Wilms' tumor, a rare form primarily affecting children.

Symptoms of kidney cancer can be subtle and may not appear until the disease is advanced. When they do occur, they can include blood in the urine (hematuria), a lump or mass in the side or abdomen, persistent pain in the side or lower back, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and fever. However, many of these symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions.

Risk factors for developing kidney cancer include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, certain genetic conditions, prolonged use of some pain medications, and exposure to certain industrial chemicals. The diagnosis often involves imaging tests such as CT scans or ultrasounds, followed by a biopsy to confirm the presence and type of cancer.

Treatment options depend on the stage, type, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. These can include surgery to remove the tumor or the entire kidney, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Early detection and treatment generally lead to a better prognosis.