What Are the Types of Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer is not a single disease but a group of cancers that begin in different parts of the kidney. Understanding the types of kidney cancer helps patients and families make sense of the diagnosis and treatment choices.

The most common form is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which starts in the lining of the tiny filtering tubes inside the kidney. RCC accounts for about nine out of ten cases of adult kidney cancer. However, there are several subtypes of RCC, each with distinct microscopic features and behavior.

The most frequent subtype is clear cell renal cell carcinoma, which makes up about 70 to 80 percent of all RCCs. Under the microscope, its cells appear pale or clear due to the presence of stored fat and sugar. This type tends to respond well to modern treatments such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

The second most common type, accounting for about 10% to 15% of cases, is papillary renal cell carcinoma. It was once classified into Type 1 and Type 2, but that system is now outdated. Today, papillary renal cell carcinoma is recognized as a diverse group of tumors with different genetic profiles and variable behavior. Some grow slowly, while others can be more aggressive.

Another recognized subtype is chromophobe renal cell carcinoma, which makes up around 5 percent of kidney cancers. These tumors often have a better prognosis and slower growth rate than other forms of RCC. Doctors usually identify chromophobe RCC by its distinct appearance under the microscope and its unique genetic profile.

A much rarer and more aggressive form is collecting duct carcinoma, also known as Bellini duct carcinoma. This cancer develops in the ducts that collect urine before it moves to the bladder. Because it spreads early, it is often difficult to treat and requires specialized management.

In children, a different tumor called Wilms tumor is the most common type of kidney cancer. It is distinct from adult kidney cancers and usually has an excellent prognosis when treated promptly with surgery and chemotherapy.

Some kidney cancers begin in the renal pelvis, the area where urine collects before leaving the kidney. These are called transitional cell carcinomas and behave more like bladder cancers than renal cell carcinomas.

Knowing the type of kidney cancer is essential because it determines the treatment plan and expected outcome. As research advances, doctors continue to refine how these cancers are classified and treated to improve survival and quality of life.

Looking for more questions?

Visit our Kidney Cancer Questions page for all other topics explained in plain language.

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