Kidney Cancer
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Hope Hematology & Oncology Associates LLC
Nikki Bajaj, MD
Oncology & Internal Medicine located in Iselin, NJ
Kidney cancer is among the most common cancer types in the United States, and cases are on the rise. Fortunately, board-certified oncologists like Nikki Bajaj, MD, at Hope Hematology & Oncology Associates LLC in Iselin, New Jersey, offers individualized treatment and care that often cures the condition. To schedule an evaluation and treatment consultation for kidney cancer, call the office for an appointment or request one online today.
Kidney Cancer Q&A
What is kidney cancer?
Kidney cancer is abnormal cell growth within the kidneys, which are the organs responsible for filtering waste out of your blood.
Not all masses of abnormal cells within the kidneys are cancerous. However, many are, and it’s important for you to get the treatment you need for kidney cancer promptly. The earlier you get your diagnosis, the more options you have for treatment.
The most common classification of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma, or cancer originating in the main cells of the kidneys. It can start out as just one small growth or two or more in the same kidney.
What are the signs of kidney cancer?
The vast majority of kidney cancer cases start out with no symptoms. As with other types of cancer, kidney cancer symptoms tend to appear and worsen over time as the condition escalates. Later stages of kidney cancer can cause:
- Bloody urine
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Low appetite
- Low back pain
- Anemia (low count of red blood cells)
These signs may be worrying, but they don’t always indicate kidney cancer. You should see a doctor if you experience any new or persistent symptoms that concern you so they can rule out other possible causes with testing.
Am I at risk for kidney cancer?
Kidney cancer doesn’t always have a distinct, identifiable cause. In fact, it can show up in almost anyone without warning due to DNA changes outside your control. However, there are a few factors that increase your risk.
Your risk for kidney cancer can increase due to:
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Poor nutrition
- Old age
- Hypertension
- Kidney failure treatments like dialysis
- Workplace chemical exposure
Your family medical history may also have some bearing on whether your risk for kidney cancer is high or low.
How is kidney cancer treated?
At Hope Hematology & Oncology Associates, Dr. Bajaj strategically treats kidney cancer using various methods in a personalized plan. The first line of treatment for kidney cancer is usually surgery, which involves removing the tumor itself or the entirety of the affected kidney.
Many small, early-stage kidney tumors are treatable without surgery. Cryoablation, for example, kills the cancer cells using a hollow needle inserted through your skin with ultrasound guidance. Cold gas enters the kidney through the needle to target the tumor. Similarly, radiofrequency ablation can directly target a kidney tumor through a probe.
If your kidney cancer is in an advanced stage or has come back after initial treatment efforts, Dr. Bajaj may recommend systemic therapies like radiation, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or even clinical trials.
To learn more about kidney cancer and explore your options for treatment, book an appointment by phone or request one online today.