​Kidney Cancer

In its early stages, kidney cancer often does not present noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, common symptoms may include:

• Hematuria: Blood in the urine, causing it to appear pink, red, or cola-colored.
• Persistent Pain: Pain in the side or lower back that does not go away.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and significant weight loss without changes in diet or exercise.
• Fatigue: Persistent feelings of tiredness and lack of energy.
• Fever: Recurrent fever not related to an infection.
• Swelling: A lump or swelling in the lower back or abdomen.​
  

Consult our Urology or Oncology experts if you experience:

• Blood in the urine (even a single occurrence).
• Persistent lower back or side pain.
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
• A noticeable lump in the abdomen or side.
• Fever that persists without an infection.
  

Your time with your doctor may be limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started.​

Diagnosis of kidney cancer involves several tests, including:

• Urinalysis: To check for blood and other abnormalities in the urine.
• Blood Tests: To evaluate kidney function and overall health.
• Imaging Tests:
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the kidneys.
• CT Scan and MRI: Provide detailed cross-sectional images of the kidneys to detect tumors and assess their size and spread.
• Biopsy: A sample of kidney tissue is collected and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.​
  

The treatment of kidney cancer depends on factors such as the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery:
• Partial Nephrectomy: Removal of the tumor while preserving kidney function.
• Radical Nephrectomy: Complete removal of the affected kidney and surrounding tissues.
• Targeted Therapy: Medications that specifically target cancer cells while sparing normal cells.
• Immunotherapy: Stimulating the body's immune system to attack cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, often for cases where surgery is not an option.
• Ablation Therapy: Techniques such as cryoablation (freezing) or radiofrequency ablation (heating) to destroy cancer cells.
  

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatment costs and authorise admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage. ​

Your doctor or nurse will provide specific instructions regarding any prescribed medications. It is essential to follow their guidance carefully. Self-prescribing or altering medication without professional advice can be harmful. Inform your healthcare provider of any past adverse reactions to medications. If you experience symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose, or a severe reaction, contact the Pharmacy Services at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. 

The contact number is listed in the 'Numbers' section on the hospital's homepage. ​