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Cancer - renal pelvis or ureterDefinition The kidneys collect urine in a section called the pelvis. The pelvis and its subdivisions (calyces) empty urine into a tube called the ureter, which leads to the bladder. Cancer can grow in this urine collection system, but is uncommon. Causes, incidence, and risk factors As a group, renal pelvis and ureter cancers account for no more than 5% of all cancers of the kidney and upper urinary tract. They affect men more often than women and are more common in people older than 65. Tumors of the renal pelvis and ureter are usually transitional cell cancers. Approximately 10% are squamous cell carcinomas. The causes of this cancer are not completely known. Chronic (long-term) irritation of the kidney from harmful substances excreted in the urine may be a factor and may result from the following:
Patients with a previous history of bladder cancer are also at risk. Symptoms
Signs and tests A physician will examine the abdomen by touch, but it rarely reveals a mass or an enlarged kidney. The patient may have blood in the urine. A complete blood count (CBC) may show anemia. Cancer cells may appear on the following tests:
Treatment The goal of treatment is to eliminate the cancer. Surgical removal of all or part of the kidney (nephrectomy) is usually recommended. This may include removal of part of the bladder and surrounding tissues or lymph nodes. If the tumor is in the ureter, it may be possible to remove it while preserving the kidney. When the cancer has spread outside of the kidney or ureter, chemotherapy is often used. Because these tumors behave similarly to transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder, the chemotherapy regimens used are similar to those used for bladder cancer. Support Groups For additional information and resources, see cancer support groups. Expectations (prognosis) The outcome varies depending on the exact location of the tumor and whether the cancer has metastasized. Cancer localized to the kidney or ureter can be cured with surgery. Cancer that has metastasized to other organs is usually not curable, though there are exceptions. Complications
Calling your health care provider Call your health care provider if the symptoms listed above are present. Prevention Wear protective equipment if you may be exposed to kidney-poisoning substances. Stop smoking. Follow your health care provider's advice regarding use of medications, including over-the-counter pain medicine. Illustrations
Page Content: Transitional cell cancer of the renal pelvis or ureter |
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