Kidney Cancer Treatment in India

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC), is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the kidneys. The kidney is the essential organ that filters blood and produces urine.Kidney cancer is one of the top ten cancers in both men and women. The lifetime risk for men is roughly 1 in 46 (2.02%), while it is approximately 1 in 80 (1.03%) for women.

The majority of kidney cancers start in the lining of small tubes within the kidneys. It is more common in people over the age of 40, with factors like smoking, obesity, and certain genetic diseases all contributing to an increased risk. The growing use of imaging techniques such as CT scans has contributed to an increase in the incidence of kidney cancer. While it is more common among men and specific ethnic groups, the precise causes are unknown.

What are the different types of Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer can appear in a variety of forms, each with a distinct set of characteristics and implications for diagnosis and treatment. The most common types of kidney cancer are:

• Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): RCC is the most common type of kidney cancer in adults, accounting for around 85% of cases.
  • Clear Cell RCC (ccRCC): Most common subtype (70-80%).
  • Papillary RCC: Forms finger-like projections, constituting about 10%.
  • Chromophobe RCC: Accounts for around 3-5%.
• Sarcomatoid Renal Cell Cancer: About 5% of RCCs have sarcomatoid characteristics, which means the cancer cells look like sarcoma cells. Sarcomatoid RCC grows quickly and is often detected at an advanced stage.
• TCC (Transitional Cell Carcinoma): TCC, which accounts for 5-10% of adult kidney cancers, usually originates in the renal pelvis, where the ureters meet the kidneys. These cancers are related to urothelial carcinomas, such as bladder cancer, in that they also arise from transitional cells.
• Sarcoma of the Kidney: Sarcoma of the Kidney is a rare type of soft tissue sarcoma that begins in the connective tissue of the kidney. Sarcomas require alternative methods of treatment due to their unique properties.
• Wilms Tumor: Mostly affecting children, Wilms Tumor constitutes roughly 1% of adult kidney cancers. Wilms Tumor treatment techniques differ greatly from those used for adult kidney cancers.
• Benign Kidney Tumors: Angiomyolipoma, which is more common in women, and Oncocytoma, which is more common in men, are examples of benign kidney tumors. Although these tumors do not spread, treatment choices are chosen depending on tumor size, symptoms, and overall patient health.

What are the symptoms of Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer often goes undetected because it is asymptomatic in the early stages. However, as the tumor grows, different indications and symptoms may appear, such as:

• Blood in Urine (Hematuria): The presence of blood in the urine, which may appear pink, red, or cola-colored, is one of the early signs of kidney cancer.
• Back or Side Pain: Persistent back or side pain that does not go away could be an indicator of kidney cancer. This discomfort may be localized in the kidney area and is often triggered by the tumor expanding and affecting nearby tissues.
• Appetite Loss and Unexplained Weight Loss: Kidney cancer can cause appetite loss and unexplained weight loss. Individuals’ entire health and well-being may suffer as their bodies battle the disease.
• Fatigue and General Malaise: Kidney cancer might be accompanied by a general feeling of fatigue and malaise. As the body deals with the effects of the disease, fatigue may become more severe.
• Low-Grade Fever: A persistent low-grade fever that lasts for an extended period and is not caused by common infections could be a sign of kidney cancer.
• Edema and Anemia: As kidney cancer advances, swelling in the ankles or legs may occur. Anemia, characterized by a lack of red blood cells, can also occur, resulting in fatigue and yellowing.
• Other Advanced Symptoms: When kidney cancer spreads to other parts of the body, advanced symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing up blood, bone pain, and fatigue may appear.

What are the causes of Kidney Cancer?

Most kidney cancers are caused by complex changes at the cellular level, specifically abnormalities in the DNA of kidney cells. These changes guide the cells to grow and divide rapidly, resulting in the development of tumors that can spread beyond the boundaries of the kidney.

• Smoking and Prolonged Exposure: Smokers have an increased risk of kidney cancer, and the length of time they smoke directly correlates with the increased risk. Tobacco smoke contains carcinogenic compounds, which can accumulate in the kidneys after being taken into the bloodstream, potentially causing DNA damage and the development of cancer.
• The Impact of Obesity: Obesity has emerged as a major risk factor for kidney cancer. Excess weight disrupts the complex hormonal balance, which contributes to the development of renal cell carcinoma (RCC).
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): People who have high blood pressure are at a higher risk of developing kidney cancer.
• Family History of Kidney Cancer: A family history of kidney cancer can increase an individual’s susceptibility to the disease. Specific inherited genetic variants, such as those associated with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, hereditary leiomyomas, Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome, and familial renal cancer, increase the risk of developing kidney cancer.
• Radiation Therapy and Genetic Mutations: Women who have had radiation therapy for reproductive organ cancer may have an increased chance of developing kidney cancer.
• Tuberous sclerosis complex: Tuberous sclerosis complex, a disorder characterized by seizures, intellectual difficulties, and the production of tumors in numerous organs, including the kidneys, has been identified as a risk factor for kidney cancer.

What is the diagnosis of Kidney Cancer in India?

The diagnosis of kidney cancer in India is an extensive procedure that includes a variety of tests and procedures intended for identifying the presence of tumors and determining the amount of their spread. The diagnostic techniques used for kidney cancer in India are:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: The diagnostic path begins with a comprehensive medical record, in which doctors and nurses delve into a patient’s past, examining risk factors and examining symptoms. A physical examination could reveal palpable abnormalities, such as masses in the abdomen, which can provide preliminary information.
• Blood and Urine Tests: Blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistry testing, can help evaluate overall health and discover irregularities that may indicate renal failure or the presence of cancer. Urinalysis, which examines urine for signs of blood or other abnormalities, is a useful diagnostic tool.
• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests play an important role in detecting renal problems. Some of these imagining tests are:
  • CT Scan (Computed Tomography): This X-ray-based imaging approach produces detailed cross-sectional images that help in tumor localization and assessment of possible spread to nearby structures.
  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI scans produce detailed soft tissue imaging using magnets and radio waves, providing an alternate or complementary view to CT scans.
  • Ultrasound: Using sound waves, ultrasound detects kidney masses and determines their composition, allowing doctors to differentiate between solid tumors and fluid-filled cysts.
  • Renal Arteriogram: While less common, this X-ray examination assesses the blood flow to the tumor, which helps with diagnosis, especially in smaller tumors.
• Biopsy:While biopsies are not generally required for the diagnosis of kidney cancer, they may be advised in certain cases. A biopsy is a procedure that includes removing a tiny tissue sample from a doubtful location for microscopic inspection. This helps to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its grade, providing information about the disease’s severity.
• Additional Staging Tests:Additional tests may be used to determine the stage of kidney cancer and if it has spread:
  • A chest X-ray is used to look for signs of metastases in the lungs.
  • A bone scan is used to determine whether cancer has spread to the bones.

What are the stages of Kidney Cancer?

After discovering a kidney lesion that raises the possibility of cancer, the next essential step is evaluating the extent or stage of the cancer. Staging is an important part of cancer diagnosis since it directs treatment planning and provides information about the prognosis.

• Stage I: The tumor is localized to the kidney and is 7 centimeters (cm) or smaller in size. It has not attacked lymph nodes or neighboring tissues. As the tumor remains within the bounds of its genesis, this stage indicates localized cancer with a positive prognosis.
• Stage II: The tumor grows to be larger than 7 cm in size but remains restricted to the kidney. It has not progressed to lymph nodes or adjacent tissues. While larger than Stage I tumors, Stage II tumors are still contained within the kidney.
• Stage III: The cancer progresses to a more advanced stage. The tumor could spread to major blood arteries like the renal vein or the inferior vena cava. It may also infiltrate the kidney’s surrounding tissue or impact neighboring lymph nodes. Stage III demonstrates disease development outside the kidney’s limits, indicating greater disease complexity.
• Stage IV: The most advanced stage, Stage IV, implies cancer that has spread beyond the borders of the kidney. This includes cases in which the tumor spreads to the adrenal gland (located on top of the kidney), distant lymph nodes, or other organs. Cancer may extend beyond the fatty layer around the kidney and into neighboring organs such as the colon, pancreas, or lungs.

What are the different treatment options for Kidney Cancer in India?

Kidney cancer offers a variety of treatment options in India to address a wide range of situations. The type of treatment chosen is determined by criteria such as the stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and the specific characteristics of the tumor. The different treatment options for kidney cancer in India are:

• Surgery:
  • Radical Nephrectomy: This procedure involves the removal of the entire diseased kidney, as well as surrounding tissues and, in certain cases, adjacent organs such as lymph nodes and adrenal glands. Medical technological advancements enable minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery.
  • Partial Nephrectomy: This procedure, also known as kidney-sparing or nephron-sparing surgery, tries to remove only the cancerous section of the kidney while keeping the remaining healthy tissue. It is used for tiny tumors.
• Nonsurgical Treatments:
  • Cryoablation: In this technique, a specialized needle is guided by ultrasound or imaging into the kidney tumor. The cancer cells are then frozen and destroyed using cold gas.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation: An imaging-guided device is introduced into the kidney tumor, and an electrical current is administered to heat and eliminate cancer cells. These nonsurgical treatments are considered in some cases, particularly when surgery is problematic.
• Targeted Therapy:Targeted medications target specific defects within cancer cells, affecting their growth. Drugs can cause cancer cells to die by identifying these targets.
• Immunotherapy:Immunotherapy uses the immune system of the body to fight cancer. It operates by interfering with the ability of cancer cells to avoid detection by the immune system. This method is especially useful when cancer cells release substances that inhibit immune responses.
• Radiation Therapy:Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells. It is used to relieve symptoms in advanced cases or when surgery is not an option.
• Chemotherapy:While chemotherapy is not a typical treatment for kidney cancer, it may be explored in certain cases, notably for a subtype known as the sarcomatoid form. To prevent cancer cell proliferation, chemotherapy medications are supplied orally or intravenously.

What are the risk factors associated with Kidney Cancer Treatment in India?

• Late Diagnosis: Kidney cancer detected late may limit options for treatment and increase the complexity of procedures.
• Advanced Stages: Kidney cancer detected at an advanced stage can provide treatment complications, typically necessitating more aggressive procedures.
• Pre-existing Health Conditions: Patients with underlying health conditions, particularly kidney disorders or failing kidneys might face additional risks during kidney cancer treatment.
• Surgical Risks: Surgical operations, such as radical or partial nephrectomy, come with intrinsic risks such as bleeding, infection, and bad anesthetic reactions.
• Therapies’ Side Effects: Treatment techniques including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy may cause fatigue, nausea, and immune-related issues.
• Nonsurgical Procedure risks: Although less invasive, nonsurgical procedures such as cryoablation and radiofrequency ablation have various risks. These include structural damage, infection, and ineffective tumor destruction.

What is the success rate of Kidney Cancer Treatment in India?

The success rate of kidney cancer treatment in India is encouraging, with a five-year survival rate of 90-95% for tumors less than 4 cm. Even for bigger tumors restricted to the kidney without venous invasion, survival remains favorable at 80-85%. The comprehensive approach guarantees that patients receive tailored care. Positive outcomes are made possible by timely diagnosis, customized therapy, and continued support.

What is the cost of Kidney Cancer Treatment in India?

The cost of kidney cancer treatment in India is estimated to be between USD 3,000 and USD 4,000. This approximate range includes a variety of factors determining overall costs, such as the hospital chosen, the experience of the treating doctor, accommodation preferences, and post-surgery care needs. The low cost of kidney cancer treatment in India, along with the availability of high-quality medical services, makes it a desirable choice for patients seeking cost-effective yet comprehensive care.

Top hospitals for Kidney Cancer Treatment in India

Top hospitals for kidney cancer treatment in India are outfitted with cutting-edge equipment, expert oncologists, and teams of specialists. Patients seeking kidney cancer treatment in India can be selected from several recognized hospitals known for their oncology expertise. These top hospitals stress patient-centered approaches, providing tailored treatment plans and upholding worldwide healthcare standards.

• Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon
• Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
• BLK Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi
• Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
• Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
• Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
• Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi
• Gleneagles Global Hospital, Chennai
• Apollo Gleneagles Hospital, Kolkata

Best Doctors for Kidney Cancer Treatment in India

There are qualified oncologists in India who specialize in kidney cancer treatment, assuring patients receive world-class medical care. These top doctors are well-known for their skills in detecting, treating, and managing kidney cancer cases. Using the most recent advances in cancer, these doctors personalize treatment strategies to specific needs using a patient-centered approach. Their dedication to providing individualized and effective care, combined with vast experience, places them among the top options in India for kidney cancer treatment.

• Sandeep Batra – Max Super Specialty Hospital Saket, New Delhi, India
• Ankur Bahl – Fortis Memorial Research Institute, New Delhi, India
• Praveen Kumar Garg – Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, India
• Sameer Kaul – Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, India
• Kamal Verma – Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, India
• Suman Karanth Gupta – Medanta – the Medicity, Gurgaon, India
• Devavrat Arya – Max Super Specialty Hospital Saket, New Delhi, India
• Shyam Bihari Bansal – Medanta – the Medicity, Gurgaon, India