Understanding the Different Types of Kidney Cancer

Published On : October 7, 2025 | Last Updated On : February 25, 2026

October 7, 2025

Understanding the Different Types of Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is a complex disease that originates in the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering excess fluid and waste from the blood. The disease develops when abnormal cells in the kidneys begin to divide uncontrollably, leading to the formation of cancer. Kidney cancer accounts for about 3% of all cancers in adults, and its incidence appears to be increasing. According to the American Cancer Society, kidney cancer is one of the most common cancers among both adult males and females in the United States.

The two most common types of kidney cancer are renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and urothelial carcinoma, with RCC being the most prevalent. Kidney cancers are classified by stage and grade to guide treatment decisions and provide prognostic information.

Understanding the Different Types of Kidney Cancer

1. Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)

Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) represents the most frequent form of kidney malignancy, constituting nearly 85% of all malignant kidney tumors. In the case of RCC, malignant (cancerous) cells form in the lining of the kidney tubules and grow into a mass (tumor). Like with many other cancers, these tumors start small and eventually grow larger over time. RCC typically grows as a single mass by itself; however, in some instances, the kidney has more than one tumor or can have tumors in both kidneys at the same time.

Clear Cell – About 75% of their cells look much paler, or transparent, under the microscope.
Papillary – Approximately 10% to 15% of people have this type. These cancers will have little finger-like projections called papillae.
Chromophobe – About 5%. These cells are larger with a prominent cell border that can appear pink or clear.
Clear Cell Papillary – about 2-4% of all cases. This is a new subtype that exhibits features of both papillary and clear cell types. This type is often less aggressive.
Collecting Duct – about 1% of all cases. This is an aggressive type that arises from the collecting system, forming irregular tubules.

2. Urothelial Carcinoma

Urothelial carcinoma develops from the urothelial cells lining the renal pelvis, which is the area where the kidney connects to the ureter (the tube from the kidney to the bladder). Although less common than RCC, the renal type of urothelial carcinoma is associated with a transitional appearance under the microscope and has a similar growth rate to RCC.

3. Wilms Tumor

Wilms’ tumor is a type of kidney cancer that primarily occurs in children, especially those under 5 years old. This cancer is uncommon but aggressive and can develop without any warning signs. Wilms’ tumor is also treatable in a young child when caught early, and the prognosis is often quite good. Wilms’ tumor is very rare among adults.

What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Kidney Cancer?

The exact cause and risk factors of kidney cancer is not known, but different factors can contribute to increasing the risk of this complex condition.

Age: As people age, their risk of developing kidney cancer increases.
Smoking: Smokers are more likely than non-smokers to develop kidney cancer. The risk goes down when you stop.
Being overweight: Obese people are more likely to develop kidney cancer than those who are deemed to be of a healthy weight.
Elevated blood pressure:. Hypertension, another name for high blood pressure, raises the chance of kidney cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Kidney Cancer?

Early kidney cancer may not present noticeable symptoms, but when the cancer progresses, common signs of kidney cancer may include:

Blood in the urine (hematuria)
A lump or mass in the side or abdomen
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
Pain in the side or back
Fever or night sweats

How is Kidney Cancer Diagnosed?

For the diagnosis of kidney cancer, some imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds, can be performed. A biopsy may also be performed to confirm the type of cancer and its spread. A blood test can be performed to diagnose kidney dysfunction.

Available Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer

Treatment for kidney cancer can vary depending on different factors, including type, stage, and location of the tumor. Overall health of the patient is also an important factor. Several treatment options for kidney cancer include:

1. Surgery

Nephrectomy: Surgical removal of the kidney or part of the kidney. A partial robotic nephrectomy is often preferred when the tumor is small and isolated.
Laparoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive surgery that uses small incisions and cameras for tumor removal.

2. Targeted Therapy

While performing targeted therapies, drugs are used to block the growth and spread of the cancer cells by targeting specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth. Such a type of treatment is used for advanced RCC.

3. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a treatment option that works by stimulating the patient’s immune system to fight against cancer. Drugs like immune checkpoint inhibitors are used to treat advanced kidney cancer. This type of treatment is typically used when other treatments have not been effective in addressing the condition.

4. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is used to shrink tumors or relieve symptoms, especially in cases when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

5. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is less commonly used for kidney cancer, but it may be an option for treating advanced-stage cancers that cannot be surgically removed.

6. Cryoablation and Radiofrequency Ablation

These are minimally invasive procedures where extreme cold or heat is used to destroy cancer cells. These techniques may be used for smaller tumors or when surgery is not an option.

Understanding the Different Types of Kidney Cancer

Dr. Shirin Razdan | Experienced Oncologist Treating Kidney Cancer

Dr. Shirin Razdan is a skilled and experienced oncologist practicing in Miami, with a wealth of experience caring for patients with kidney cancer. She is passionate and dedicated to providing personal cancer care to each patient by using the most modern treatments available, including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and minimally invasive surgical approaches. Dr. Razdan’s thorough approach to treating kidney cancer often involves collaboration with multiple specialists to ensure that each patient receives the best possible treatment and comprehensive care. She first takes her time to understand the patient’s condition, then educates the patient on their options.

Dr. Razdan possesses a profound understanding of the genetic and molecular composition of every cancer, enabling her to develop targeted treatment options that contribute to improved survival outcomes and enhanced quality of life.

If you are suffering from kidney cancer, you can consult Dr. Shirin Razdan for an effective treatment. Consult Dr. Razdan by calling 305-468-3314. She, along with her team, will develop a personalized treatment plan to offer you favorable results.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kidney Cancer

Question 1. What are the common signs of the presence of kidney cancer?

Answer. When kidney cancer is in the early stages, it usually shows no symptoms. However, common signs include blood in the urine, back or side pain, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and a lump in the abdomen. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms.

Question 2. How do I confirm if I have kidney cancer?

Answer. Kidney cancer diagnosis is by using imaging tests, including CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds. To confirm the diagnosis, a biopsy may be performed. Blood tests can be beneficial in providing clues to the kidney function and potential cancer markers.

Question 3. What is the prognosis for kidney cancer?

Answer. The prognosis for kidney cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis. When kidney cancer is diagnosed in the early stages, it can be treated effectively with surgery, while advanced cancer requires more aggressive therapies. With early detection and suitable treatment, the survival rates from kidney cancer may improve.

Question 4. Can kidney cancer be prevented?

Answer. Kidney cancer cannot be prevented entirely. Some risk factors, such as smoking and obesity, can be limited to reduce the likelihood of developing the disease. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help lower your risk.

Question 5. What options are available for the treatment of kidney cancer?

Answer. Several treatment options are available, including kidney cancer surgery (nephrectomy), targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiation. The choice of treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and medical condition.

Question 6. What is renal sarcoma?

Answer. Renal sarcoma is a rare but aggressive form of kidney cancer. This type of cancer arises from connective tissue within the kidney. This type of kidney cancer does not usually respond to treatment; to treat renal sarcoma, a combination of surgery and chemotherapy is used.

Question 7. What are the other rare types of kidney cancer?

Answer. Other types of kidney cancers, which are rare, include lymphoma of the kidney (cancer of the lymphatic system) as well as metastatic kidney cancer (cancer that starts from another area in the body). These types of cancer require patients to undergo more specialized treatment and multidisciplinary care.