Kidney Cancer Treatment in Singapore

This is the most common type, accounting for about 90% of kidney cancers. RCC originates in the lining of the kidney’s tiny filtering tubes. There are several subtypes of RCC, including clear cell (most common), papillary, and chromophobe, each with different characteristics and treatment responses.

Also called urothelial carcinoma, this type starts in the renal pelvis where urine collects before moving to the bladder. It accounts for 5-10% of kidney cancers and is often associated with smoking.

This rare type primarily affects children under age 5 and is highly treatable with current therapies. Adult cases are extremely rare.

The rarest form of kidney cancer, beginning in the kidney’s connective tissue. It represents less than 1% of all kidney cancers.

Usually no symptoms

• Blood in the urine (haematuria). Urine may appear pink, red, or cola-coloured
• Lower back pain on one side that does not go away
• A mass or lump in the kidney area
• Unexplained fever that comes and goes
• Persistent fatigue without clear cause
• Significant weight loss without trying
• Loss of appetite lasting several weeks
• Anaemia causing weakness and pale skin
• Swelling in ankles and legs

• Bone pain, especially in the spine, hips, or ribs
• Persistent cough or coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath
• Severe fatigue affecting daily activities
• Confusion or mental changes

Partial Nephrectomy

Removal of the tumour and a small margin of healthy tissue while preserving the rest of the kidney. This approach is preferred for smaller tumours and helps maintain kidney function. Can be performed using minimally invasive techniques such as robot-assisted surgery, with faster recovery times.

Radical Nephrectomy

Complete removal of the affected kidney and its surrounding tissue, and sometimes nearby lymph nodes. This approach is recommended for larger tumours where a partial nephrectomy is deemed to be not feasible. Modern laparoscopic and robotic techniques allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Ablation Therapy

For small tumours in patients who cannot undergo surgery, radiofrequency or cryoablation can destroy cancer cells using extreme heat or cold. This procedure is performed under image guidance with quick recovery times. However, the success rate is generally not as high as surgery.

For small tumours (less than 4cm) in elderly patients or those with other serious health conditions, careful monitoring with regular imaging may be appropriate. This approach involves CT or MRI scans every few months to track any changes.

Targeted Therapy

These drugs specifically target cancer cell pathways and are particularly effective for advanced kidney cancer. Options include tyrosine kinase inhibitors like sunitinib and pazopanib, which block tumour blood vessel growth. Treatment is typically oral, taken daily, with regular monitoring for side effects.

Immunotherapy

Checkpoint inhibitors like nivolumab and pembrolizumab help the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. These medications are given intravenously every 2-4 weeks and have shown promising results in advanced kidney cancer.

Chemotherapy

Traditional chemotherapy has limited effectiveness against kidney cancer and is rarely used as a primary treatment. It may occasionally be considered for certain rare subtypes or in combination with other therapies.