Renal cell carcinomas (RCC) refer to a type of malignant tumor that develops in the cells lining the small tubules of the kidney. These tumorous growths primarily originate from the renal cortex, the outer part of the kidney, and account for the majority of kidney cancers in adults. RCCs are known to spread within the kidney and have the ability to metastasize to other parts of the body, particularly the lymph nodes and lungs.
Characterized as a heterogeneous disease, renal cell carcinomas can manifest various subtypes differentiated by their microscopic appearance and genetic characteristics. The most common subtype is clear cell renal cell carcinoma, accounting for nearly 70% of all RCC cases. Other subtypes include papillary renal cell carcinoma, chromophobe renal cell carcinoma, and collecting duct carcinoma, among others.
The causes of renal cell carcinomas are still not entirely understood, but several risk factors have been identified, including smoking, obesity, hypertension, and certain genetic predispositions. Symptoms associated with RCCs can also vary, but common signs include blood in urine, lower back pain, weight loss, fatigue, and presence of a palpable mass in the abdomen.
Diagnosis of renal cell carcinomas typically involves a combination of imaging techniques like computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. Surgical removal of the tumor, known as nephrectomy, is the primary treatment for localized RCCs. In cases of metastatic RCCs, treatment options may include targeted therapies, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, or, in select cases, partial nephrectomy or ablation techniques. The prognosis and potential for successful treatment depend on various factors, including the stage and grade of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health.
