Imaging studies and a biopsy will also be done to confirm the diagnosis and help guide treatment.
This article will explain the diagnostic process for renal cell carcinoma as well as how the cancer is staged.
That said, roughly 4% of cases are attributed to hereditary conditions.
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They usually are detected as part of an imaging test done for another reason.
Labs and Tests
Several different lab tests may be ordered if your doctor suspects renal cell carcinoma.
This test can identify roughly 90% of renal cell carcinomas.
It can also give your healthcare team some idea about the extent of a mass.
Ultrasound:An ultrasound is sometimes the first test done to discover a renal cell carcinoma.
Biopsy
Before treatment is started, abiopsyis usually done to confirm the suspected diagnosis.
A core needle biopsy is performed most often.
You may be given some medication to help you relax.
Subtypes include:
Tumor grade is a measure of the aggressiveness of the cancer.
A tumor grade of 1 is least aggressive, and a tumor grade of 4 is most aggressive.
A tumor that is stage 0 is considered noninvasive, and should theoretically be 100% curable with removal.
TNM stage: T1, N0, M0.
TNM stage: T2, N0, M0.
You will also have blood and urine tests.
For this reason, healthcare providers are taught to have a “high index of suspicion.”
That said, it can be very worrisome to go through the process of getting diagnosed.
However, there is plenty you’re able to do to be your own advocate.
Having a primary care physician who is familiar with your medical and family history is a good start.
Gray RE, Harris GT.Renal cell carcinoma: diagnosis and management.Am Fam Physician.2019;99(3):179-184.
Padala SA, Barsouk A, Thandra KC, et al.Epidemiology of renal cell carcinoma.World J Oncol.
