A kidney tumor is a mass of abnormal cells that form within one or both of the kidneys, which are located on either side of your body. Kidney tumors can be cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign) and may not cause any noticeable symptoms in some patients. Both malignant and benign kidney tumors can lead to the development of specific symptoms which should be discussed with a doctor or oncologist.
Blood in the Urine
The kidneys are responsible for filtering excess waste from your body, which is then excreted in the form of urine. Tumor cells within either of your kidneys can irritate or inflame the affected organ, which may cause small amounts of blood to be excreted in your urine. Blood in the urine--a symptom called hematuria--can cause your urine to appear brown (rust-like) or red in color, warn medical professionals at The Kidney Trust, a non-profit organization established by DaVita Inc., one of the leading kidney care providers in the United States. If you notice blood within your urine, contact your doctor as soon as possible as this symptom can also be indicative of an alternate medical problem.
Back Pain
If you have a kidney tumor, you can experience mild to severe pain in your back immediately above the site of the affected kidney. Painful back sensations can be constantly achy or sharp, making it uncomfortable for to move about normally. Back pain can radiate into your sides or abdominal region, which may lead to additional symptoms including nausea or stomach upset.
Lump or Mass
Tumor cells that accumulate within the kidney can cause a lump or mass to arise from the affected organ. When this occurs, your doctor may be able to feel a raised bump when she presses your side or abdominal area, explains the National Cancer Institute. A kidney mass or lump can be tender to the touch and may increase in size as the tumor continues to grow.
Fatigue or Weight Loss
You can experience excessive fatigue or unintended weight loss as a symptom of a kidney tumor, warn health officials at the University of California, San Francisco, Medical Center. You may find that symptoms of back pain or nausea negatively affect your normal appetite, leading to decreased food consumption. If you experience fatigue, you may find that you do not have the energy to participate in your usual activities or that you require frequent naps throughout the day to remain active. Certain patients with kidney tumors also experience fever in conjunction with these symptoms, which can lead to a general feeling of illness (malaise).
