The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located in the rear of the abdomen, just below the ribcage. The function of the kidneys is to filter waste products from the blood and produce urine. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common form of kidney cancer in adults, according to the American Cancer Society, whereas, Wilms tumor is the most common form of kidney cancer in children, states Medline Plus. The symptoms of kidney tumors are similar for both types of cancer.
Blood in the Urine
Kidney tumors cause blood in the urine. Visually, blood in the urine will change the color from a normal pale yellow or straw color to a pink or rusty red color. Depending on the amount of blood in the urine, the color may even appear to be a deep red color. After collecting a urine sample and looking at it under the microscope, the blood cells are visible to the clinician's eye. The Merck Manual of Medical Information states this is often the first symptom of a kidney tumor.
Pain
Pain from a kidney tumor can occur in several areas of the body. An individual may feel pain in the back, the side or in the abdomen. The pain location is on the same side of the body as the kidney tumor. The pain does not decrease with rest and does not go away.
Mass
Often with a kidney tumor, a large mass or hard lump can be found in the side. The growth appears on the same side of the body as the affected kidney. The swollen area might also feel tender when touched.
Fever
A fever might come and go with a kidney tumor. A persistent fever is common with a kidney infection, but cancer causes a fever to occur only some of the time.
Weight Loss
Kidney tumors can cause weight loss in some individuals. The weight loss can occur from a decrease in appetite, nausea or vomiting.
Malaise
A general feeling of poor heath often accompanies kidney cancer. One of the responsibilities of the kidney is to produce a hormone that regulates the production of red blood cells. The tumor may disrupt the hormone production. An increase or decrease in red blood cells may result from the disruption. The symptoms of too many or too few red blood cells include dizziness, fatigue and headaches.
