Kidney cancer: Diagnosis
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Kidney Cancer

Kidney Cancer - Diagnosis

How is kidney cancer diagnosed?

Tests and procedures used to diagnose kidney cancer include: 

Ultrasound or Computed Tomography (CT) scan

- Ultrasound or CT scan is taken to give detailed images of the kidney to show the size, characteristics and extent of spread of the kidney tumour. 

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan

- MRI scans use strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce a detailed image of the kidneys and look for any spread of the cancer cells. 

Biopsy

- During a biopsy, samples of kidney tumour tissue are removed and examined under the microscope in the laboratory to confirm the presence of cancer. 

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan

- A detailed body scan that can help to investigate kidney cancer cases to see if the cancer has spread or evaluate how well it is responding to treatment. 

Cystoscopy

- Cystoscopy is a test used to examine the inside of the bladder that is usually used for patients who have a kidney tumour and blood in the urine. During the test, a cystoscope which is an instrument that contains a lens and light system is used to help the doctor to examine the inside of the urethra, prostate and bladder to identify any tumours. 

How is staging for kidney cancer done?

After a patient is diagnosed with kidney cancer, a series of tests are performed to stage the cancer and determine the size, aggressiveness and growth of the cancer. This helps doctors determine the best treatment plan for the patient. These may include blood and urine tests, imaging tests (e.g CT scans and MRIs) and procedures such as a biopsy. 

Stages of kidney cancer: 
  • Stage I – the kidney tumour is less than 7cm and has not spread 
  • Stage II – the kidney tumour is larger than 7cm and has not spread 
  • Stage III – the tumour has spread to surrounding tissue, nearby lymph nodes or blood vessels 
  • Stage IV – the cancer has spread to lymph nodes and other organs in the body
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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