What are the symptoms of kidney cancer?
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Introduction
Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC), is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys. It is known for its diverse range of clinical manifestations, which can make early diagnosis challenging. Understanding the common symptoms associated with kidney cancer is crucial for timely detection and treatment.
Key Insights from Research Papers
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Hematuria (Blood in Urine)
- Visible hematuria is the most common and powerful predictor of kidney cancer .
- Gross hematuria was present in 43% of patients in one study.
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Pain
- Pain, particularly in the lumbar or flank area, is a frequent symptom .
- Pain was the chief complaint in 31 patients, but it was not always in the flank.
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Fatigue and Weakness
- Fatigue is a common symptom among kidney cancer patients .
- Weakness and malaise are also frequently reported .
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Abdominal Mass
- A palpable tumor mass in the abdomen is a significant indicator, though less common .
- In some cases, patients presented with a painless tumor mass in the abdomen.
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Weight Loss and Anorexia
- Weight loss and anorexia are common symptoms and are associated with poor prognosis .
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Fever
- Fever is another symptom that can be present in kidney cancer patients .
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Nausea and Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Nausea and other nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms can also be indicative of kidney cancer .
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Other Symptoms
- Additional symptoms include raised inflammatory markers, thrombocytosis, low hemoglobin, urinary tract infections, raised creatinine, leukocytosis, constipation, back pain, abnormal liver function, and raised blood sugar.
Conclusion
Kidney cancer presents with a variety of symptoms, the most common being visible hematuria, pain (especially in the lumbar or flank area), fatigue, and weakness. Other notable symptoms include abdominal mass, weight loss, anorexia, fever, and nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms. Recognizing these symptoms can aid in the early detection and treatment of kidney cancer.
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