According to the American Cancer Society, more than 57,750 people in the United States were diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma or kidney cancer in 2009. Obesity, high blood pressure, smoking, protracted kidney dialysis, and exposure to asbestos or cadmium increase the risk for kidney cancer. Renal cell carcinoma symptoms often do not occur until the later stages of the disease. However, awareness of the possible symptoms of kidney cancer may lead to an early diagnosis.
Change in Urine Color
The National Cancer Institute advises that kidney cancer can lead to blood in the urine. The presence of blood changes the urine from the normal straw-yellow color to unusual shades such as pink, red, rust or brown. The presence of blood in the urine is an important indicator that something may be wrong with the kidneys.
Unilateral Back or Flank Pain
The American Urological Association advises that renal cell carcinoma may cause one-sided back or flank pain. The flank is the region between the top of the hip and the lower edge of the ribcage. A distinguishing characteristic of pain associated with kidney cancer is its persistence.
Mass in the Abdomen or Side
Renal cell carcinoma may cause a perceptible new lump or mass in the side or abdomen, advises the University of Virginia Health System. A mass is typically not evident until late in the disease. However, it may be noticed during an annual physical or other medical examination.
Unintended Weight Loss
The American Cancer Society points out that unintended weight loss may be a symptom of kidney cancer. Although weight loss can be a symptom of any type of cancer and many noncancerous disorders, the presence of this symptom in combination with kidney cancer risk factors may help guide and expedite diagnosis.
Fatigue
Fatigue and a general sense of feeling ill may be symptoms of renal cell carcinoma, advises the National Cancer Institute. Notably, these symptoms tend to persist and often increase in severity over time.
Unexplained Fevers
The Mayo Clinic notes that unexplained, intermittent fevers may be a symptom of kidney cancer. Unexplained fever is not specific to kidney cancer, but this symptom may provide a valuable piece to the diagnostic puzzle when considered along with other signs and symptoms.
Ankle and Leg Swelling
The University of Virginia Health System notes that ankle and leg swelling may be a presenting symptom of renal cell carcinoma. Tumor growth may impinge upon blood flow in the local veins. This causes fluid backup with leakage into the soft tissues of the ankle and leg. Swelling associated with kidney cancer tends to involve one leg rather than equal swelling in both legs.
