A diagnosis of kidney cancer can be overwhelming at first. There is an infinite amount of information available to patients and caregivers who are reeling from the diagnosis.
Our goal is to inform without adding to the overwhelm you’re already experiencing. We have reliable resources of information to help you as you begin to learn about kidney cancer.
“We see a mass on your kidney.” Perhaps you heard this statement after a CT or ultrasound that was performed for another reason, and you are wondering what is going to happen next. Kidney cancer is also referred to as a “renal mass” which is an abnormal growth in the kidney.
There is no screening test for kidney cancer so it is usually discovered by chance or after symptoms develop. Genetic health conditions can increase a risk for kidney cancer. Additional testing is usually required to make a good plan for your care.
You’ll soon become very familiar with the terminology and acronyms used in your care. In the meantime, here’s a tool to help. Enter the word you’d like explained in this dictionary of cancer terms provided by the National Cancer Institute:
Click the image to download this comprehensive resource book from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network for clear and comprehensive information about many aspects of kidney cancer, from basic concept to treatment guides.
Choosing a doctor can feel overwhelming, but this is especially true for patients with kidney cancer, which is considered one of the more “rare” cancers.
In this case, resources created by the International Kidney Cancer Coalition called “My Treatment, My Choices” might be very helpful. These informational PDFs include workbooks to help you understand your options, ask the right questions at your appointments, and make a care plan.
Traditional “chemotherapy” isn’t used for most types of kidney cancer.
This helpful widget from the National Cancer Institute can help you with medical vocabulary:
There are multiple support groups serving the kidney cancer community. SmartPatients.com is a patient forum and a KidneyCAN partner. We recommend this as a private, moderated place to talk with other patients. Your cancer center may also have their own support groups.
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