Kidney

Kidney uro-oncology refers to the study and treatment of cancers that affect the kidneys and urinary tract, including the renal pelvis, ureters, and bladder. The most common malignancies in this field include renal cell carcinoma (RCC), transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), and urothelial carcinoma.

Renal cell carcinoma, which originates in the kidneys, is the most common form of kidney cancer, often diagnosed at advanced stages. Symptoms may include blood in urine, flank pain, and unexplained weight loss. Urothelial carcinoma, typically found in the lining of the bladder or ureters, can also affect the renal pelvis. It is often linked to smoking and exposure to certain chemicals. These malignancies can spread locally or to distant organs, such as the lungs or bones.

Treatment for kidney uro-oncology malignancies includes surgery (nephrectomy or partial nephrectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Advances in immuno-oncology, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, have improved outcomes for patients with advanced disease. Early detection through imaging and biomarkers, along with personalized treatment plans, is key to improving survival rates. Urologists, oncologists, and pathologists collaborate closely in the management of these complex and challenging cancers, aiming to maximize functional preservation and overall prognosis.