Rak nerki
Diagnostyka i diagnoza

Rak nerkowokomórkowy (RCC) stanowi około 90% nowotworów nerki i jest jednym z 10 najczęstszych nowotworów w USA. Diagnostyka opiera się głównie na badaniach obrazowych, zwłaszcza trójfazowej tomografii komputerowej (CT) z kontrastem, gdzie wzrost gęstości o ≥15 HU w litej części guza wskazuje na żywotność nowotworu. Badania laboratoryjne, takie jak urynaliza (obecność krwi w moczu u ~40% pacjentów z naciekiem układu zbiorczego), morfologia krwi (anemia jako częsty objaw) oraz biochemia (podwyższona kreatynina) dostarczają informacji o funkcji nerek i stanie ogólnym pacjenta. Rezonans magnetyczny (MRI) jest pomocny w ocenie zajęcia naczyń żylnych i przerzutów do OUN, a ultrasonografia różnicuje guzy lite od torbieli. Biopsja igłowa lub chirurgiczna nie jest rutynowo wymagana, jeśli obrazowanie jest diagnostycznie jednoznaczne, jednak może być konieczna w niejasnych przypadkach.

Diagnostyka raka nerki

Rak nerki (rak nerkowokomórkowy, RCC) jest jednym z 10 najczęstszych nowotworów w Stanach Zjednoczonych, a 90% przypadków nowotworów nerki to właśnie rak nerkowokomórkowy. Diagnostyka raka nerki często rozpoczyna się od badania fizykalnego i wywiadu zdrowotnego, jednak ze względu na brak specyficznych objawów we wczesnym stadium, około połowa guzów nerki jest wykrywana przypadkowo podczas badań obrazowych wykonywanych z innych powodów.123

Badania laboratoryjne

Badania laboratoryjne same w sobie nie mogą jednoznacznie potwierdzić diagnozy raka nerki, ale mogą dostarczyć istotnych informacji o funkcjonowaniu nerek i ogólnym stanie zdrowia pacjenta:12

  • Badanie moczu (urynaliza) – pozwala wykryć krew w moczu, nadmiar białka lub oznaki infekcji. Około 40% pacjentów z rakiem nerki, gdzie nowotwór naciekł układ zbiorczy nerki, ma krew w moczu.34
  • Cytologia moczu – badanie mikroskopowe komórek w moczu na obecność komórek nowotworowych.5
  • Morfologia krwi (CBC) – mierzy liczbę różnych komórek we krwi, takich jak czerwone krwinki, białe krwinki i płytki krwi. Anemia (niski poziom czerwonych krwinek) jest najczęstszym początkowym objawem choroby.24
  • Badania biochemiczne krwi – oceniają funkcję wątroby i nerek, a także poziom elektrolitów, takich jak sód i potas. Podwyższony poziom kreatyniny może wskazywać na nieprawidłową pracę nerek.25

Badania obrazowe

Badania obrazowe są kluczowym elementem diagnostyki raka nerki, pozwalającym na określenie lokalizacji i wielkości guza oraz ocenę, czy nowotwór rozprzestrzenił się poza nerkę:12

  • Tomografia komputerowa (CT) – jest to preferowane badanie obrazowe w diagnostyce raka nerki. Trójfazowe badanie CT z kontrastem umożliwia dokładną ocenę lokalizacji i wielkości guza, a także określenie, czy nowotwór rozprzestrzenił się do okolicznych tkanek, węzłów chłonnych lub innych narządów. Zmiana Hounsfielda (HU) o 15 jednostek lub więcej w litej części guza po podaniu środka kontrastowego świadczy o wzmocnieniu, a tym samym o żywotnych częściach guza.67
  • Rezonans magnetyczny (MRI) – może dostarczyć dodatkowych informacji, szczególnie w ocenie zajęcia naczyń żylnych, gdy zakres skrzepliny nowotworowej żyły głównej dolnej (IVC) jest słabo widoczny w badaniu CT. MRI jest również przydatny w ocenie rozprzestrzeniania się nowotworu do rdzenia kręgowego lub mózgu.37
  • Ultrasonografia – wykorzystuje fale dźwiękowe do tworzenia obrazów wewnętrznych organów. Badanie to może pomóc w odróżnieniu guzów litych od torbieli wypełnionych płynem, które nie są nowotworowe.35
  • Zdjęcie rentgenowskie klatki piersiowej – wykonywane w celu sprawdzenia, czy rak rozprzestrzenił się do płuc.34
  • Scyntygrafia kości – badanie obrazowe, które może wykazać, czy nowotwór rozprzestrzenił się do kości.34

Biopsja

W przeciwieństwie do większości nowotworów, rak nerki często może zostać zdiagnozowany bez konieczności wykonania biopsji, na podstawie samych badań obrazowych. Jednak w niektórych przypadkach biopsja może być konieczna do potwierdzenia diagnozy:12

  • Biopsja igłowa rdzeniowa – procedura, podczas której lekarz wprowadza cienką igłę przez skórę do nerki w celu pobrania małej próbki tkanki. Do naprowadzenia igły lekarz może użyć ultrasonografii lub tomografii komputerowej.38
  • Biopsja chirurgiczna – w niektórych przypadkach diagnoza ostateczna jest stawiana po operacyjnym usunięciu części lub całości guza nerki i badaniu histopatologicznym.9

Biopsja nie zawsze jest konieczna przed leczeniem, szczególnie jeśli badania obrazowe dostarczają wystarczających informacji do postawienia diagnozy. Na podstawie wyników obrazowania niektórzy pacjenci mogą przejść bezpośrednio do operacji. Decyzję o wykonaniu biopsji podejmuje lekarz, oceniając, która metoda będzie najlepsza do określenia, czy pacjent ma raka nerki.310

Staging (ocena zaawansowania) raka nerki

Po zdiagnozowaniu raka nerki kolejnym krokiem jest określenie stopnia zaawansowania nowotworu, co pomaga stworzyć odpowiedni plan leczenia. Do oceny zaawansowania nowotworu mogą być konieczne dodatkowe badania CT i MRI.1

System TNM

Powszechnie stosowany system oceny zaawansowania raka nerki to system TNM, który uwzględnia:311

  • T (Tumor) – rozmiar guza pierwotnego i jego lokalizacja w nerce
  • N (Nodes) – liczba okolicznych węzłów chłonnych zajętych przez nowotwór
  • M (Metastasis) – czy nowotwór dał przerzuty do innych części ciała

Stopnie zaawansowania

Na podstawie systemu TNM określa się stopień zaawansowania raka nerki od I do IV:11212

  • Stopień I – nowotwór jest mały (do 7 cm średnicy) i ograniczony tylko do nerki.
  • Stopień II – nowotwór jest większy (powyżej 7 cm średnicy), ale nadal ograniczony tylko do nerki.
  • Stopień III – nowotwór rozprzestrzenił się poza nerkę do okolicznych tkanek, głównych naczyń krwionośnych lub pobliskich węzłów chłonnych.
  • Stopień IV – nowotwór rozprzestrzenił się do jednego lub więcej węzłów chłonnych lub innych narządów, takich jak jelita, trzustka czy płuca.

Rak nerki może być również opisywany jako:12

  • Zlokalizowany – nowotwór występuje tylko w nerce
  • Regionalny – nowotwór rozprzestrzenił się do tkanek wokół nerki, a także do węzłów chłonnych i naczyń krwionośnych w miednicy
  • Przerzutowy – nowotwór rozprzestrzenił się do innych, odległych części ciała

Stopień zróżnicowania histologicznego (grade)

Stopień zróżnicowania histologicznego guza opisuje, jak komórki guza wyglądają pod mikroskopem. Może to wyjaśnić, jak szybko guz prawdopodobnie będzie rósł. Raki nerki otrzymują stopień od 1 do 4:3

  • Niższy stopień oznacza, że komórki nowotworowe są bardziej podobne do normalnych komórek nerki i zwykle rosną wolniej
  • Wyższy stopień oznacza, że komórki nowotworowe są bardzo różne od normalnych i mają tendencję do szybszego wzrostu

Nowoczesne metody diagnostyczne

Wraz z rozwojem technologii pojawiają się nowe metody diagnostyczne, które mogą poprawić dokładność i skuteczność wykrywania raka nerki:1314

  • Zaawansowane badania genomowe – poszukują zmian DNA w komórkach nowotworowych, które mogą napędzać wzrost guza. Mogą pomóc w dostosowaniu leczenia do indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta.15
  • Badanie PET/CT – zaawansowana technika obrazowania nuklearnego, która łączy technologię CT z pozytonową tomografią emisyjną w jednym urządzeniu. Przydatna szczególnie w przypadku oceny zaawansowania przedoperacyjnego w guzach wysokiego ryzyka oraz w ocenie odpowiedzi na terapie systemowe w chorobie przerzutowej.16
  • Płynna biopsja – testy wykrywające krążący DNA guza (ctDNA) we krwi, które mogą być wykorzystywane do monitorowania nawrotu choroby po operacji oraz do oceny odpowiedzi na leczenie.1717
  • Uczenie maszynowe i sztuczna inteligencja – metody te są rozwijane do analizy obrazów CT i danych klinicznych w celu poprawy dokładności diagnozy i klasyfikacji guzów nerki. Mogą pomóc w podejmowaniu decyzji dotyczących optymalnego podejścia chirurgicznego.1414

Klasyfikacja torbieli nerek

Aby określić, czy torbiel jest nowotworowa, lekarze stosują klasyfikację Bosniak. System ten dzieli torbiele na 5 kategorii:36

  • Kategoria I – proste torbiele nienowotworowe, które można obserwować
  • Kategoria II – łagodne torbiele z drobnymi powikłaniami
  • Kategoria IIF – torbiele, które wymagają dalszej obserwacji
  • Kategoria III – torbiele o niepewnym potencjale złośliwości
  • Kategoria IV – torbiele wyraźnie nowotworowe, które powinny zostać usunięte

Typy raka nerki

Rozpoznanie typu raka nerki jest istotną częścią procesu diagnostycznego, gdyż różne typy mogą wymagać różnych podejść terapeutycznych:33

  • Rak jasnokomórkowy (ccRCC) – najczęstszy typ raka nerki, stanowiący około 70% przypadków raka nerkowokomórkowego
  • Rak brodawkowaty (pRCC) – drugi najczęstszy typ, stanowiący około 15% przypadków RCC
  • Rak chromofobowy – rzadki typ raka nerki, stanowiący około 5% wszystkich przypadków

W zaawansowanym raku nerki komórki nowotworowe mogą rozprzestrzeniać się do innych części ciała. Jest to nazywane „przerzutami”. Najczęstsze miejsca przerzutów raka nerki to wątroba, kości, płuca i mózg.3

Diagnoza różnicowa

Przy diagnostyce raka nerki należy wziąć pod uwagę inne stany, które mogą dawać podobne objawy lub zmiany w badaniach obrazowych:518

  • Torbiele nerki – mogą być widoczne w badaniach obrazowych, ale są zazwyczaj łagodne i nie wymagają leczenia
  • Angiomiolipoma (AML) – łagodny guz nerki, który zawiera tkanki tłuszczowe, naczynia krwionośne i mięśnie gładkie
  • Onkocytoma – łagodny guz nerki, który może być trudny do odróżnienia od RCC w badaniach obrazowych
  • Rak urotelialny – nowotwór, który rozpoczyna się w miedniczce nerkowej, moczowodzie lub pęcherzu moczowym

Znaczenie wczesnej diagnostyki

Wczesna i dokładna diagnoza raka nerki jest kluczowa dla skutecznego leczenia i poprawy rokowania. Dzięki postępom w diagnostyce obrazowej coraz więcej przypadków raka nerki jest wykrywanych we wczesnym stadium, co pozwala na zastosowanie mniej inwazyjnych metod leczenia i zwiększa szanse na całkowite wyleczenie.1920

Warto podkreślić, że obecnie nie ma zalecanych badań przesiewowych w kierunku raka nerki dla osób o przeciętnym ryzyku. Jednak osoby z wysokim ryzykiem, takie jak osoby z dziedzicznymi zespołami genetycznymi (np. zespół von Hippel-Lindau, dziedziczna leiomiomatoza i rak nerkowokomórkowy), mogą korzystać z regularnego monitorowania za pomocą badań obrazowych.2122

Proces diagnostyczny raka nerki wymaga współpracy specjalistów z różnych dziedzin, w tym urologów, radiologów, patologów i onkologów. Wielodyscyplinarne podejście zapewnia kompleksową ocenę i pozwala na opracowanie najlepszego planu leczenia dostosowanego do indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta.2323

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 13.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Kidney cancer – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352669
    Kidney cancer diagnosis often begins with a physical exam and a discussion of your health history. Blood and urine tests as well as imaging tests may be used. A sample of tissue may be taken for lab testing. […] Tests and procedures used to diagnose kidney cancer include: […] Blood tests may check for the number of red blood cells in the body. Urine tests may look for substances in the urine, such as blood, bacteria and cancer cells. […] Imaging tests make pictures of the body. They can show the location and size of a kidney cancer. Tests might include ultrasound, CT or MRI. […] A biopsy is a procedure to remove a sample of tissue for testing in a lab. For kidney cancer, a thin needle is inserted into the kidney or other body part such as the lymph nodes. A healthcare professional uses the needle to remove a sample of tissue. A biopsy may not be needed if imaging tests show enough information to make a diagnosis.
  • #1 Tests for Kidney Cancer | Kidney Cancer Diagnosis | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/kidney-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/how-diagnosed.html
    Kidney cancer (also known as renal cell cancer, or RCC) might be found because of signs or symptoms a person is having, or it might be found because of lab tests or imaging tests a person is getting for some other reason. […] The actual diagnosis of kidney cancer is made by looking at a sample of kidney cells in the lab or sometimes by how the kidney looks on an imaging test. […] If symptoms or the results of the physical exam suggest you might have kidney cancer, you will probably need to have certain tests. These might include lab tests, imaging tests, or biopsies of the kidney. […] If kidney cancer is found, more tests might then be needed to help determine the stage (extent) of the cancer. […] Lab tests cant show for sure if a person has kidney cancer, but they can sometimes give the first hint that there may be a kidney problem.
  • #1 Kidney cancer – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352669
    If you’re diagnosed with kidney cancer, the next step is to determine the cancer’s extent, called the stage. Your healthcare team uses the cancer staging test results to help create your treatment plan. Staging tests for kidney cancer may include additional CT and MRI scans. […] The stages of kidney cancer range from 1 to 4. A stage 1 kidney cancer is small and confined to the kidney. As the cancer gets larger, the stages get higher. A stage 4 kidney cancer has grown beyond the kidney or spread to other parts of the body.
  • #2 Tests for Kidney Cancer | Kidney Cancer Diagnosis | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/kidney-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/how-diagnosed.html
    Kidney cancer (also known as renal cell cancer, or RCC) might be found because of signs or symptoms a person is having, or it might be found because of lab tests or imaging tests a person is getting for some other reason. […] The actual diagnosis of kidney cancer is made by looking at a sample of kidney cells in the lab or sometimes by how the kidney looks on an imaging test. […] If symptoms or the results of the physical exam suggest you might have kidney cancer, you will probably need to have certain tests. These might include lab tests, imaging tests, or biopsies of the kidney. […] If kidney cancer is found, more tests might then be needed to help determine the stage (extent) of the cancer. […] Lab tests cant show for sure if a person has kidney cancer, but they can sometimes give the first hint that there may be a kidney problem.
  • #2 Diagnosis and Staging – Kidney Cancer Association
    https://www.kidneycancer.org/diagnosis-treatment/diagnosis-and-staging/
    Tests or exams may include: Physical exam to check your overall health. This could include checking vital signs like: Blood pressure, Temperature, Weight, Pulse (heart beats). […] Complete medical and family history. Your healthcare team will ask you about medicines you take, any other health conditions, and results of your health tests. They will want to know if any family members have had kidney cancer or other diseases. […] Blood tests. Your team will take samples of your blood to check how well your kidneys are working and your overall health. Some blood tests include: Complete Blood Count (CBC) test – this measures the number of cells in the blood such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Blood chemistry tests – these look at how well your liver and kidneys are working, and electrolytes like sodium and potassium.
  • #2 Tests for Kidney Cancer | Kidney Cancer Diagnosis | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/kidney-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/how-diagnosed.html
    If cancer has already been diagnosed, blood tests are also done to get a sense of a persons overall health and to help tell if the cancer might have spread to other areas. […] Imaging tests might be done for a number of reasons, such as: To look for tumors in people who have symptoms or abnormal test results that might be from kidney cancer. […] Unlike most other types of cancer, doctors can sometimes diagnose kidney cancer with a fair amount of certainty using only imaging tests, without needing a biopsy (removing a sample of the tumor). […] But if kidney cancer is suspected, imaging tests can often provide enough information for a surgeon to decide if surgery is needed. The diagnosis is then confirmed when part or all of the kidney is removed and is looked at in the lab. […] If kidney cancer cells are found, further tests might be done to determine which type of kidney cancer it is.
  • #3 Diagnosis and Staging – Kidney Cancer Association
    https://www.kidneycancer.org/diagnosis-treatment/diagnosis-and-staging/
    Initial Diagnosis – finding out you have cancer. About half of kidney tumors are found during a CT scan or X-ray. Some kidney cancers are found after certain symptoms lead to testing. Other kidney cancers are found by chance, while the doctor is looking for something else. […] Testing for a Kidney Cancer Diagnosis. Doctors can do different tests to find out how much cancer is in your body. These tests can also help you and your doctor create your treatment plan. Your primary care doctor may have already done some of these tests for your initial diagnosis. However, a kidney cancer specialist may need to redo some or all of these tests. […] If you have a kidney tumor, a kidney cancer specialist or team of specialists will do tests to find out: The size of the tumor, If the tumor is cancerous, If any cancer cells have spread to other parts of your body, What treatment options are available.
  • #3 Diagnosis and Staging – Kidney Cancer Association
    https://www.kidneycancer.org/diagnosis-treatment/diagnosis-and-staging/
    Urinalysis. A test of your urine (pee) that looks for blood, extra proteins, or infection. […] Computed Tomography (CT) Scan. An imaging test that uses X-rays to create detailed images of certain areas of your body. It helps doctors find cancer. They will scan your abdomen (belly) and pelvis to show your kidneys and nearby areas to see if the cancer has spread. […] Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). An imaging test that uses radio waves and powerful magnets to take pictures of your body. An MRI is used to check if kidney cancer has spread to major blood vessels or the brain. […] Bone scan. An imaging test that can show if the cancer has spread to your bones. […] Chest x-ray. An imaging test to see if the cancer has spread to your lungs. If something shows on the X-ray, your doctor may order a CT scan of your chest for a better look.
  • #3 Diagnosis and Staging – Kidney Cancer Association
    https://www.kidneycancer.org/diagnosis-treatment/diagnosis-and-staging/
    Biopsy. A procedure where a doctor removes a small sample of your tumor with a needle. Your team examines the sample to see if it is cancerous. […] Based on imaging test, some patients won’t have a biopsy and will go straight to surgery. Your doctor will decide what is the best way to determine if you have kidney cancer. […] To find out if a cyst is cancer, doctors use the Bosniak classification system. This tells them if it needs to be removed, or if it can be left alone and watched. This system divides cysts into 5 categories, with Category 1 (I) as non-cancerous simple cysts that can be watched, and Category 4 (IV) as clearly cancerous cysts and should be removed. […] Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common type of kidney cancer. About 9 out of 10 kidney cancers are renal cell carcinomas.
  • #3 Diagnosis and Staging – Kidney Cancer Association
    https://www.kidneycancer.org/diagnosis-treatment/diagnosis-and-staging/
    The TNM staging system is a widely used system to determine cancer stage. It stands for: T – Tumor: The size of your primary (main) tumor and where it is in your kidney. N – Nodes: The number of nearby lymph nodes that contain cancer. M – Metastasis: If the cancer has metastasized (spread) to other parts of your body. […] The grade of a tumor describes how the tumor’s cells appear under a microscope. This can explain how quickly the tumor is likely to grow. Kidney cancers are given a grade from 1 – 4.
  • #3 Diagnosis and Staging – Kidney Cancer Association
    https://www.kidneycancer.org/diagnosis-treatment/diagnosis-and-staging/
    Clear cell RCC, or ccRCC, is the most common type of kidney cancer. About 70% of people with RCC (7 in 10) have this type of kidney cancer. […] Papillary RCC is the second most common type of kidney cancer. About 15% of RCCs (15 in 100) are this type. […] Chromophobe RCC is a rare type of kidney cancer that makes up about 5% of all kidney cancers (5 in 100). […] In advanced kidney cancer, cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body. This is called “metastasis.” The most common sites of metastasis for kidney cancer are the liver, bones, lungs, and brain. […] After you have been diagnosed with kidney cancer, doctors will try to find out the stage and grade of your cancer. This helps doctors better understand your cancer and guide your treatment. […] A cancer stage describes how much cancer has been found in your body. For example, an early-stage cancer is only in the kidney, while a later stage cancer has spread to other areas of the body.
  • #4 Diagnosis of kidney cancer | Canadian Cancer Society
    https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/kidney/diagnosis
    Urinalysis is a test that measures substances such as electrolytes, hormones and blood in the urine (pee). If there is blood in the urine, it means that there is bleeding into or within the kidneys or urinary tract. […] Blood chemistry tests measure certain chemicals in the blood. They show how well certain organs are working and can help find abnormalities. Blood chemistry tests used to diagnose kidney cancer include the following. […] A complete blood count (CBC) measures the number and quality of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. A CBC is done to check for anemia (low levels of red blood cells) from long-term bleeding. Anemia is very common in people with kidney cancer. […] A CT scan is the imaging test most commonly used to diagnose kidney cancer. It is used to get information about the size, shape and location of the tumour. It is also used to find out if the tumour has spread to the lymph nodes, blood vessels or other organs.
  • #4 Diagnosis of kidney cancer | Canadian Cancer Society
    https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/kidney/diagnosis
    An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to make images of parts of the body. It is used to look for any changes to the kidney. It can show the difference between a kidney cyst, which has fluid inside, and a solid tumour. […] Sometimes an MRI is used to check if cancer has spread to the kidneys major blood vessels or to other organs. […] During a biopsy, the doctor removes tissues or cells from the body so they can be tested in a lab. A report from a pathologist will show whether or not cancer cells are found in the sample. […] A kidney biopsy is not usually done to diagnose kidney cancer. Imaging tests like CT scans and ultrasounds usually confirm the diagnosis. […] An x-ray uses small doses of radiation to make an image of parts of the body on film. A chest x-ray is used to see if the kidney cancer has spread to the lungs.
  • #4 Diagnosis of kidney cancer | Canadian Cancer Society
    https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/kidney/diagnosis
    A bone scan uses bone-seeking radioactive materials called radiopharmaceuticals and a computer to create a picture of the bones. It is used to see if kidney cancer has spread to the bone. It is usually used if blood chemistry tests, such as increased alkaline phosphatase or calcium levels, suggest that kidney cancer has spread to the bone.
  • #5 Kidney Cancer Information | ColumbiaDoctors
    https://www.columbiadoctors.org/specialties/urology/our-services/urologic-cancers/kidney-cancer/about-kidney-cancer
    Kidney cancer can be very difficult to identify and detect on routine physical examination. […] To confirm the presence and extent of kidney cancer, clinicians at Columbia University Department of Urology at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital use the latest laboratory testing and diagnostic imaging technologies including: […] Urinalysis to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: Doctors examine the urine under a microscope to look for any abnormal cells. […] Cystoscopy and Retrograde Pyelography to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: If doctors suspect that a kidney tumor is arising from the collecting system, they may examine the patient using cystoscopy and retrograde pyelography. […] Biopsy to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: Doctors rarely examine a sample of kidney tissue (biopsy) for tumors because a negative biopsy does not always rule out a diagnosis of cancer.
  • #5 Kidney Cancer Information | ColumbiaDoctors
    https://www.columbiadoctors.org/specialties/urology/our-services/urologic-cancers/kidney-cancer/about-kidney-cancer
    Blood Tests to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: Doctors analyze the blood for abnormal levels of creatinine, a sign of impaired kidney function, or abnormal levels of liver enzymes, which may suggest that cancer has spread to the liver. […] Renal Scan to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: This test helps to determine how well the kidneys are functioning. […] Venogram/Arteriogram to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: This specialized imaging test of the arteries and veins connected to the kidneys is used to identify the presence of cancer. […] Bone Scan to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: This test may be advisable to determine whether the kidney cancer has spread to the bones.
  • #5 Kidney Cancer Information | ColumbiaDoctors
    https://www.columbiadoctors.org/specialties/urology/our-services/urologic-cancers/kidney-cancer/about-kidney-cancer
    Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: Doctors perform this exam by injecting a dye into the bloodstream, which travels to the kidneys, ureters, and bladder to more clearly outline these organs on x-ray. […] CT Scan to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: This imaging technology allows the organs of the body to be examined very closely, to check for evidence of a tumor in the kidney as well as in other organs such as the lungs. […] Renal Ultrasound to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: This test uses sound waves to distinguish between cancerous masses and fluid-filled cysts, which are not cancerous. […] Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to Diagnosis Kidney Cancer: MRI uses magnetic waves to image the kidneys and can be used to detect kidney tumors or to check for the presence of a tumor in the blood vessels of the kidneys.
  • #6 Renal Cell Carcinoma: Diagnosis and Management | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0201/p179.html
    Kidney cancer is one of the 10 most common cancers in the United States with 90% being attributed to renal cell carcinoma. […] Renal masses, either cystic or solid, are best detected with contrast-enhanced, triple-phase computed tomography. […] Hematuria serves as a warning sign that necessitates further evaluation and imaging leading to a diagnosis and treatment plan. […] Patients 35 years or older who have asymptomatic microhematuria should have cystoscopy and imaging with multiphasic computed tomography urography performed. […] Gross hematuria requires computed tomography (CT), urography, and urology consultation for cystoscopy. […] A contrast-enhanced, triple-phase helical CT scan that images the urinary tract before, during, and after contrast load is the preferred imaging study for evaluating renal masses or persistent microscopic hematuria.
  • #6 Renal Cell Carcinoma: Diagnosis and Management | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0201/p179.html
    Routine urine cytology is not recommended for the initial evaluation of asymptomatic microscopic hematuria. […] The management of cystic lesions should be guided by the Bosniak classification system. […] A urology consultation for further evaluation is indicated for microscopic or gross hematuria without urinary tract infection or other benign causes. […] The preferred treatment for any nonmetastatic, solid, or Bosniak III or IV complex cystic kidney mass is surgical excision, preferably using a minimally invasive approach. […] Active surveillance is an acceptable option in some patients when the renal mass measures less than 2 cm. […] Approximately 30% of all patients with renal cell carcinoma have metastatic disease at diagnosis. […] The most significant indicator of prognosis for renal cell carcinoma is based on pathological staging.
  • #7 Renal Cell Carcinoma – Uroweb
    https://uroweb.org/guidelines/renal-cell-carcinoma/chapter/diagnostic-evaluation
    With solid renal masses, the most important criterion for differentiating malignant lesions is the presence of enhancement. Traditionally, US, CT and MRI are used for detecting and characterising renal masses. Most renal masses are diagnosed accurately by imaging alone. […] Computed tomography or MRI are used to characterise renal masses. Imaging must be performed unenhanced, in an early arterial phase, and in a parenchymal phase with intravenous contrast material to demonstrate enhancement. In CT imaging, enhancement in renal masses is determined by comparing Hounsfield units (HU) before, and after, contrast administration. A change of fifteen HU, or more, in the solid tumour parts demonstrates enhancement and thus vital tumour parts. Computed tomography or MRI allows accurate diagnosis of RCC but cannot reliably distinguish oncocytoma and fat-free AML from malignant renal neoplasms.
  • #7 Renal Cell Carcinoma – Uroweb
    https://uroweb.org/guidelines/renal-cell-carcinoma/chapter/diagnostic-evaluation
    Magnetic resonance imaging may provide additional information on venous involvement if the extent of an inferior vena cava (IVC) tumour thrombus is poorly defined on CT. […] Renal cancer can be related to an inherited or de novo monogenic germline alteration and this recognition has significant implications. Hereditary kidney cancer is thought to account for 5-8% of all kidney cancer cases, although this number is likely an underestimation since a more recent study found germline mutations in up to 38% of all metastatic kidney cancer patients. […] Renal mass biopsies are associated with reduced overtreatment of benign masses and offers patients additional information (i.e. grade, subtype) for an informed decision regarding optimal management.
  • #8 Kidney Cancer Diagnosis | MD Anderson Cancer Center
    https://www.mdanderson.org/cancer-types/kidney-cancer/kidney-cancer-diagnosis.html
    A biopsy is the removal of a very small piece of suspected cancer tissue for examination under a microscope. This is the only way to definitively diagnose kidney cancer prior to surgery. […] A kidney biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a doctor uses a small needle to collect tissue samples from the kidney. […] If a biopsy targets a specific mass, it can determine whether it is malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). It can also identify the type of cancer, such as renal cell carcinoma, the most prevalent form of kidney cancer. This is crucial for appropriate treatment planning. […] Regardless of the findings, kidney biopsies play a crucial role in informing doctors about their patients conditions, guiding more effective treatment decisions. […] The majority of patients tolerate the procedure very well, and any discomfort can be controlled with local anesthesia and IV sedation. […] One of the main risks of a kidney biopsy is bleeding. […] We have some of the most experienced specialists in the field performing kidney biopsies here at MD Anderson. That makes them a safe option for patients seeking clarity about their kidney health.
  • #9 Diagnosis & Tests for Renal Cell Cancer – Virginia Cancer Institute
    https://www.vacancer.com/cancer/renal-cancer/diagnosis-tests-for-renal-cell-cancer/
    Doctors use many tests to find, or diagnose, cancer. They also do tests to learn if cancer has spread to other parts of the body from where the cancer originated. A biopsy is the only certain way to confirm a diagnosis of cancer. When performing a biopsy, the doctor takes a sample of tissue for testing in a laboratory. […] When a kidney cancer is suspected, a kidney imaging study is obtained. The initial imaging study is usually an ultrasound or CT scan. If cancer is suspected, the patient should be evaluated to determine the extent of spread or stage of the cancer. Examination of both kidneys is essential to assure that one is working normally. […] When diagnosed with renal cell cancer further tests are necessary to determine the extent of spread (stage) of the cancer. Cancer’s stage is a key factor in determining the best treatment. The stage of cancer may be determined at the time of diagnosis or it may be necessary to perform additional tests.
  • #10 Kidney cancer
    https://www.cancervic.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/kidney_cancer/diagnosing_kidney_cancer.html
    A biopsy is when doctors remove a sample of cells or tissue from an area of the body. It is a common way to diagnose cancer, but it is not always needed for kidney cancer before treatment. […] If a biopsy is done, it will be a core needle biopsy. […] The tissue sample will be sent to a laboratory, and a specialist doctor called a pathologist will look at the sample under a microscope to check for any cell changes. […] If you have blood in your urine, your doctor might use a thin tube with a light and camera to look inside your bladder (cystoscopy), ureters (ureteroscopy) or kidneys (pyeloscopy). […] These procedures help rule out urothelial carcinoma, which can start in the bladder, a ureter or part of the kidney.
  • #11 Kidney Cancer Diagnosis and Stages – Kidney Cancer | UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center
    https://www.uclahealth.org/cancer/cancer-services/kidney-cancer/diagnosis-kidney-cancer
    The most important factor in predicting prognosis, as well as the treatment options, is the „stage” or extent of the cancer. Staging is the process of gathering information from physical examinations and diagnostic tests to determine the size and location of the tumor and how widespread a cancer is. […] Common staging systems for Kidney Cancer […] The most commonly used staging system is that of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC), also known as the TNM Staging System. […] The UCLA Integrated Staging System (UISS), developed by translational researchers within the UCLA Department of Urology, is a more complex but probably more accurate system that incorporates the TNM staging systems, a person’s overall health and the Fuhrman grade of the tumor.
  • #12 Diagnosis and Stages of Kidney Cancer – Brigham and Women’s Hospital
    https://www.brighamandwomens.org/cancer/kidney-cancer/diagnosis-and-stages
    The AJCC (American Joint Committee on Cancer) TNM staging system (Stages 0IV) is commonly used for kidney cancer. A higher number, such as IV, means a more advanced cancer. […] Stage I: This stage of kidney cancer is only found in the kidney and is up to 2.75 inches (7 centimeters) in diameter. […] Stage II: This stage of kidney cancer is only found in the kidney and is up larger than 2.75 inches (7 centimeters) in diameter. […] Stage III: This stage of kidney cancer has spread beyond the kidney to surrounding tissue, major veins or nearby lymph nodes. […] Stage IV: This stage of kidney cancer has spread beyond the kidney to one or more lymph nodes or other organs, such as the bowel, pancreas or lungs. […] Kidney cancer may also be described in terms of one of the following categories:
  • #12 Diagnosis and Stages of Kidney Cancer – Brigham and Women’s Hospital
    https://www.brighamandwomens.org/cancer/kidney-cancer/diagnosis-and-stages
    Localized: This stage of kidney cancer is only found in the kidney. […] Regional: This stage of kidney cancer has spread to tissues around the kidney, as well as lymph nodes and blood vessels in the pelvis […] Metastatic: This stage of kidney cancer has spread to other, distant parts of the body.
  • #13 Deep learning for end-to-end kidney cancer diagnosis on multi-phase abdominal computed tomography | npj Precision Oncology
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41698-021-00195-y
    In 2020, it is estimated that 73,750 kidney cancer cases were diagnosed, and 14,830 people died from cancer in the United States. Preoperative multi-phase abdominal computed tomography (CT) is often used for detecting lesions and classifying histologic subtypes of renal tumor to avoid unnecessary biopsy or surgery. However, there exists inter-observer variability due to subtle differences in the imaging features of tumor subtypes, which makes decisions on treatment challenging. […] In this paper, we propose an end-to-end deep learning model for the differential diagnosis of five major histologic subtypes of renal tumors including both benign and malignant tumors on multi-phase CT. Our model is a unified framework to simultaneously identify lesions and classify subtypes for the diagnosis without manual intervention.
  • #14 Kidney Cancer Diagnosis and Surgery Selection by Machine Learning from CT Scans Combined with Clinical Metadata
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10296307/
    Diagnosis is the most important step in treating and managing kidney cancer, requiring accurate identification, localization, and classification of tumor regions. […] In recent years, machine-learning-based approaches have been proposed to localize, quantify, and stratify kidney tumors using contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) images. […] We show that the inclusion of clinical features alongside medical images improves the performance of kidney tumor classification. […] In addition to cancer stage and tumor volume, some surprisingly common demographic features were revealed to be key determinants of the surgical procedure later selected for nephrectomy. […] Accurate diagnosis is a critical step in the management of kidney cancer patients and is influenced by multiple factors including tumor size or volume, cancer types and stages, etc.
  • #14 Kidney Cancer Diagnosis and Surgery Selection by Machine Learning from CT Scans Combined with Clinical Metadata
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10296307/
    Using machine learning to consider clinical data alongside computed tomography images could potentially help resolve some of these surgical ambiguities, by enabling a more robust classification of kidney cancers and selection of optimal surgical approaches. […] We rationalized these data to overcome the high field of view (FoV), extract tumor regions of interest (ROIs), classify patients using deep machine-learning models, and extract/post-process CT image features for combination with clinical data. […] Regardless of marked data imbalance, our combined approach achieved a high level of performance (85.66% accuracy, 84.18% precision, 85.66% recall, and 84.92% F1-score). […] When selecting surgical procedures for malignant tumors (RCC), our method proved even more reliable (90.63% accuracy, 90.83% precision, 90.61% recall, and 90.50% F1-score).
  • #15 How to Test, Diagnose and Detect Kidney Cancer
    https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/kidney-cancer/diagnosis-and-detection
    A thorough and accurate kidney cancer diagnosis is the first step in developing a kidney cancer treatment plan. Your integrated team of kidney cancer care experts will use a variety of tests and tools designed for diagnosing kidney cancer, evaluating the disease and developing your individualized treatment plan. […] Examples of the types of procedures used for diagnosing kidney cancer include: […] Kidney biopsy: If an imaging test shows evidence of a possible malignant tumor, a biopsy may be performed to determine if the mass is cancerous. […] CT scan: A CT scan for kidney cancer uses X-ray images to present detailed images of the kidneys. […] Lab tests used to diagnose kidney cancer include: Advanced genomic testing looks for DNA alterations in cancer cells that may be driving the growth of tumor.
  • #16 Renal Cell Carcinoma – Genitourinary Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/genitourinary-disorders/genitourinary-cancers/renal-cell-carcinoma
    Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common renal cancer. […] Diagnosis is confirmed by CT or MRI and occasionally by biopsy. […] Symptoms usually do not appear until late, when the tumor may already be large and metastatic. […] Diagnosis is suggested by clinical findings and confirmed by abdominal CT before and after injection of a radiocontrast agent or by MRI. […] A renal mass that is enhanced by radiocontrast strongly suggests renal cell carcinoma (RCC). […] Often, nonmalignant and malignant masses can be distinguished radiographically, but sometimes biopsy or surgery is needed for confirmation. […] Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT is not routinely done in most patients with primary RCCs, but it may be beneficial for preoperative staging in high-risk tumors and to assess the response to systemic therapies in metastatic disease.
  • #17
    https://www.guoncologynow.com/page/renal-cell-carcinoma-diagnostics
    Comparative Performance of ctDNA, Imaging Studies in Monitoring Localized RCC Post-Surgery Drs. Ben-David and Joyce evaluate the performance of ctDNA in detecting localized RCC disease recurrence after surgery. […] Drs. Ben-David, Joyce share an analysis on recurrence-free survival according to ctDNA status in patients with renal masses. […] Pre-op ctDNA in localized RCC is linked to aggressive tumor features and worse RFS, highlighting its prognostic potential. […] CA9 imaging and ZIRCON data offer new insight into managing small renal masses and supporting personalized kidney cancer care. […] Drs. Joyce and Chang discuss diagnostic strategies and future innovations in managing small renal masses. […] A recent proof-of-concept study has further evaluated the efficacy of PSMA-guided MDT for oligometastatic RCC.
  • #17
    https://www.guoncologynow.com/page/renal-cell-carcinoma-diagnostics
    Dr. Dan Joyce discusses key SUO studies on RCC prognostics, personalized medicine, and advancements in treatment strategies. […] Serial ctDNA negativity or clearance was linked to improved PFS compared with persistent ctDNA positivity during treatment. […] The phase 3 ZIRCON trial demonstrated positive results with use of the agent for patients with ccRCC.
  • #18 Tests and next steps for kidney cancer – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-cancer/tests-and-next-steps/
    If your GP refers you to a specialist because they think you could have kidney cancer, youll usually have some tests and scans. […] These may include: an ultrasound scan, a CT scan, a cystoscopy a camera is passed through the tube that carries pees out of your body (urethra) to look inside your bladder, using a needle to collect a small sample of cells from 1 of your kidneys (biopsy) for testing. […] It can take several weeks to get the results of your tests. […] A specialist will explain what the results mean and what will happen next. […] If you’ve been told you have kidney cancer, you may need more tests, such as: scans, like an MRI scan or CT scan, a chest X-ray, a bone scan to see if the cancer has spread. […] These, along with the tests you’ve already had, will help the specialists find out the size of the cancer and how far it’s spread (called the stage).
  • #19
  • #20 Kidney cancer | Causes, Symptoms & Treatments | Cancer Council
    https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/kidney-cancer
    It is not possible for a doctor to predict the exact course of a disease, as it will depend on each person’s individual circumstances. However, your doctor may give you a prognosis, the likely outcome of the disease, based on the type of kidney cancer you have, the test results, the rate of tumour growth, as well as your age, fitness and medical history. […] In most cases, the earlier that kidney cancer is diagnosed, the better the prognosis.
  • #21 Advances in Kidney Cancer Research – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/types/kidney/research
    About 5% to 8% of kidney cancers are caused by inherited genetic changes. […] There is no screening test that is recommended to diagnose kidney cancer early in people at average risk. Genetic counseling and blood tests sometimes called liquid biopsy tests to detect kidney cancers early may be offered to people with hereditary conditions that put them at high risk of such tumors. […] The gene changes that cause these syndromes have been identified, and people who have a history of kidney cancer in their family can now undergo genetic testing to see if they carry any of these changes. […] This information from genetic testing can help health care providers develop a personalized plan for monitoring kidney health. […] Until a few decades ago, kidney cancer was considered to be a single disease.
  • #22 Screening for kidney cancer: For those with average and high risk
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/kidney-cancer-screening
    There are no routine screening guidelines to test for kidney cancer. However, urine tests as part of a routine medical checkup may detect kidney cancer in people at average risk. For those with an increased risk of kidney cancer, a doctor may recommend regular imaging scans and genetic testing. […] The ACS states that, for those with an average risk of kidney cancer, there are no recommended screening tests. […] However, those with a higher risk of developing kidney cancer may need to undergo regular imaging tests, such as computerized tomography (CT), MRI, or ultrasound scans, at younger ages to look for kidney tumors. […] Some kidney cancers only receive a diagnosis as a result of a person visiting a doctor when they experience signs and symptoms of kidney cancer. Others receive a diagnosis after a person undergoes an exam for another reason.
  • #23 How We Diagnose Kidney Cancer | Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
    https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/types/kidney-cancer/diagnosis
    Beginning with your first appointment at the Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology at Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, you will be matched with specialists and researchers who deal exclusively with genitourinary cancers. […] Finding the right team of pathologists and radiologists to manage your kidney cancer diagnosis is key to developing a successful treatment plan. […] With recent advancements in detection, fewer than 40 percent of kidney cancer cases are advanced when discovered. However, if you have been diagnosed with a kidney tumor or kidney cancer at any stage, it’s important to be treated as early as possible. Early diagnosis can improve your chances for successful treatment and recovery. […] These tests are most commonly used to diagnose kidney cancer: […] If kidney cancer is found after a biopsy, some of the following tests may be conducted to determine if the cancer cells have spread beyond the kidney(s) to other parts of the body. The process used to find out if, and how far, the cancer has spread is called staging. It is important to know the stage of the cancer in other words, how far the cancer has progressed or is likely to progress in order to plan treatment.
  • #23 How We Diagnose Kidney Cancer | Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
    https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/types/kidney-cancer/diagnosis
    The stage of kidney cancer is the most important factor in determining your treatment plan. […] Kidney cancer may also be described as localized, regional, or metastatic: […] The Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center kidney cancer team is at the forefront of kidney cancer research, converting breakthroughs into safe and more effective treatments. […] Each kidney cancer patient benefits from this quality research and the discoveries our team is making. […] Our diagnostic team provides second opinions and we are happy to consult with you, your primary care physician, or other specialists. […] You may want to consider a second opinion: […] To confirm your diagnosis […] To have original biopsies or other tissue diagnosis confirmed […] For details on the type and stage of cancer […] To better understand your treatment options […] To learn if you are eligible for clinical trials.