About Kidney Tumor Pathology

Kidney tumors can be either malignant or benign. Malignant kidney tumors are cancerous whereas benign tumors are non-cancerous. However, even if the tumor is non-cancerous, it is normally removed since there can be pre-cancerous cells that could later become malignant. A pathologist makes the determination between benign and stages malignant tumors, if they are found.

When a Tumor is Discovered in Kidney

A tumor that is found on or in the kidney will require a biopsy to find out if it benign or malignant. Once this determination is made, surgery is scheduled to remove the tumor. Benign tumors or those that are not cancerous must be removed because they can cause kidney damage or later become cancerous. If they are cancerous, the pathologist at that point will stage the findings, which means he or she will give the cancer a number, such as Stage 3, for example.

Many people do not know they have kidney tumors and could die from something else entirely. If an autopsy is performed, the tumors could be discovered at that time. However, most people with tumors regardless if they are malignant or benign will have some pain especially in the flank area of the body.

Increase Risk of Developing Kidney Tumors

A family history of kidney tumors always increases the risk of the next generation developing the same type of renal tumors. In addition, even if there is no genetic predisposition and you smoke cigarettes, you have an increased of developing kidney tumors that could be cancerous or benign. Therefore, if you smoke, you should quit or ask your doctor for help in quitting.