As this eMedTV page explains, treating kidney cancer may involve surgery, arterial embolization, or other treatments. This article takes an in-depth look at treating this disease, including information about second opinions, nutrition, and follow-up care.
Kidney cancer treatment often varies based on the stage (or extent) of the disease. This eMedTV article breaks down kidney cancer treatment by stage, which may involve options such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and arterial embolization.
While there are several treatment options for kidney cancer, surgery is one of the most common. This eMedTV article describes the three basic forms of surgery: partial nephrectomy, simple nephrectomy, and radical nephrectomy.
When used to treat kidney cancer, chemotherapy has only been shown to be of limited effectiveness. As this eMedTV article explains, however, doctors are studying new chemotherapy drugs and combinations of drugs that may be more effective.
Radiation treatment for kidney cancer uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. This eMedTV article describes how radiation therapy is used to treat kidney cancer and describes side effects associated with the treatment, such as urinary discomfort.
As discussed on this eMedTV page, biological treatment for kidney cancer uses substances made by the body (or in a lab) to boost, direct, or restore the body's natural defenses. This article explains this treatment and describes its side effects.
Arterial embolization is a treatment for kidney cancer that blocks the flow of blood to the tumor. As this eMedTV article explains, arterial embolization for kidney cancer may be used when surgery to remove the tumor is not possible.
For some people with kidney cancer, support groups can provide help coping with the disease. This eMedTV article discusses some of the benefits of such support groups and provides information about other potential sources of support.
Acupuncture, massage therapy, and vitamins are aspects of alternative kidney cancer treatment. This eMedTV article discusses these and other options that may help people with kidney cancer reduce stress, manage symptoms, and minimize side effects.
In cases of kidney cancer, pain can result from the tumor itself or treatment of the disease. As this eMedTV resource explains, methods used to reduce pain caused by kidney cancer or its treatment may include medications and radiation therapy.
Kidney cancer survival rates refer to the percentage of people who survive the disease for a certain time. This eMedTV segment provides overall survival rates for people with kidney cancer, as well as survival rates based on stage of the disease.
After being diagnosed with kidney cancer, questions about treatment may not be easy to remember. This eMedTV article contains lists of kidney cancer questions patients may wish to bring to their doctor's appointment.
