Kidney Cancer Treatment in Bangalore

Kidney Cancer Treatment in Bangalore

The kidneys are vital organs that do much more than filter your blood. They help manage blood pressure, balance electrolytes, activate vitamin D for healthy bones, and even help produce red blood cells. But when cells in the kidney begin to grow uncontrollably, a tumor may form, and that’s where kidney cancer begins.

This type of cancer commonly starts in the small filtering tubes of the kidney, called renal tubules. Left untreated, it can impair kidney function and potentially spread to other parts of the body. The good news? With the right diagnosis and timely treatment, kidney cancer is manageable and even curable in many cases.

Symptoms to Watch For

• Blood in the urine (hematuria) — urine may look red, pink, or cola-colored
• Persistent lower back pain, especially below the ribs
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue, low appetite, and weakness
• Swelling in the legs or ankles
• High blood pressure
• Fever without infection

If you’re experiencing these signs, it’s important to consult a specialist immediately.

What Causes Kidney Cancer?

While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several risk factors can increase the chances of developing kidney cancer:

Smoking significantly increases the risk

Obesity and high blood pressure strain the kidneys

Genetics, especially conditions like von Hippel-Lindau (vHL) syndrome

Exposure to harmful chemicals such as asbestos or cadmium

Being male and high blood pressure strain the kidneys

How Is Kidney Cancer Diagnosed?

At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar follows a streamlined diagnostic approach:

1. CT Scan (Contrast-Enhanced):

The most reliable diagnostic test for kidney tumors. It not only confirms the tumor’s presence but also helps decide whether a part of the kidney can be preserved via partial nephrectomy, often done laparoscopically or robotically.

2. Blood Tests:

Tests like CBC and renal function help understand overall health. However, kidney cancer may not affect these values unless both kidneys are impacted.

3. Biopsy:

Typically not required. CT scans are usually accurate enough for diagnosis. A biopsy is only performed in very select cases.

Stages of Kidney Cancer

Understanding the stage helps guide treatment decisions:

Stage I : Tumor smaller than 7cm, confined to the kidney.

Stage II : Tumor larger than 7cm but still within the kidney

Stage III : Spread to lymph nodes or surrounding tissues

Stage IV : Spread to distant organs like the lungs, liver, or bones

Kidney Cancer Treatment Options

Dr. Shiva Kumar provides evidence-based, minimally invasive treatment options using cutting-edge techniques.

1. Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgeries

Partial Nephrectomy (Nephron-Sparing Surgery):
Ideal for small tumors. Only the tumor and surrounding tissue are removed, preserving kidney function.

1. Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgeries

Partial Nephrectomy (Nephron-Sparing Surgery):
Ideal for small tumors. Only the tumor and surrounding tissue are removed, preserving kidney function.

Radical Nephrectomy:
The entire affected kidney is removed when the tumor is large or centrally located.

Extended Radical Nephrectomy:
In some advanced cases, nearby lymph nodes or major vessels like the IVC may also be addressed during surgery.

Metastatectomy:
If the cancer has spread to organs like the lungs or liver, and the case is suitable, surgical removal may be attempted with curative intent.

2. Nonsurgical Treatments

For advanced or inoperable cases, the following are considered:

Immunotherapy: Boosts your immune system to fight cancer

Targeted Therapy: Drugs that block the growth of cancer cells by targeting specific pathways

Ablation Techniques: Like radiofrequency or microwave ablation for patients unfit for surgery

Palliative Care: To improve quality of life and manage symptoms in advanced cases

Radiation Therapy: Used sparingly in kidney cancer, mostly for pain relief or palliative care

Chemotherapy is generally ineffective for kidney cancer and is rarely used.

Why Choose Shree Srinivasa Uro Care?

At our Bangalore clinic, your care is handled personally by Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar, a highly skilled and compassionate uro-oncology expert. We don’t believe in a team of rotating specialists; we believe in personal responsibility and focused care. From consultation to follow-up, you’ll be under one expert’s supervision, ensuring continuity and trust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)