What Is Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma?

Papillary renal cell carcinoma (pRCC) is the second most common type of kidney cancer, accounting for about 10% to 15% of adult cases. It is called “papillary” because the tumor cells often grow in finger-like projections, or papillae, when viewed under a microscope.

Unlike the more common clear cell renal cell carcinoma, pRCC has different genetic features, growth patterns, and treatment responses. It can sometimes be less aggressive, but certain forms may behave more unpredictably.

Papillary RCC is no longer classified simply as “Type 1” or “Type 2,” as newer research shows that it includes a diverse group of subtypes with overlapping features. These subtypes may have different genetic mutations and biological behavior, but the term “papillary RCC” is still widely used in clinical settings.

This type of kidney cancer may occur sporadically or as part of an inherited condition, such as hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma (HPRCC). People with HPRCC often develop tumors in both kidneys or have multiple tumors in the same kidney.

Papillary RCC is often discovered incidentally during imaging for unrelated health concerns. In other cases, it may cause symptoms such as:

  • Blood in the urine
  • Flank or back pain
  • A lump in the side or abdomen

Treatment depends on the tumor size and stage. Small, localized tumors are typically managed with surgical removal, either partial or full nephrectomy. For advanced cases, options may include targeted therapies or immunotherapy, though these may be less effective than in clear cell RCC.

The prognosis for papillary RCC varies depending on tumor grade, genetic features, and whether it has spread. Many localized cases are successfully treated with surgery alone.

Looking for more questions?

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

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What is Blood in the Urine or Hematuria?

Image
Introduction Blood in the urine, medically known as hematuria, is a condition where red blood cells are present in the urine. Hematuria can be alarming, but it is not always a sign of a serious medical condition. It can be caused by a wide variety of factors, ranging from infections to more serious conditions such as kidney disease or bladder cancer. This guide provides an in-depth explanation of what hematuria is, its causes, types, symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and prevention strategies. By understanding the potential causes and how it is diagnosed and treated, patients and their loved ones can be better informed about this condition. Hematuria, or blood in the urine, can be a symptom of a variety of conditions, ranging from minor infections to more serious issues such as kidney disease or cancer. While it can be alarming, it is important to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Understanding Hematuria Hematur...
Read more

What Are the Kidneys and What Do They Do?

Image
Introduction The kidneys are essential organs that play a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. These two bean-shaped organs, located just below the ribcage on either side of the spine, serve as the body's natural filtration system. Every day, they filter large volumes of blood, removing waste products, toxins, and excess fluid, which are then excreted as urine. While their primary role is to filter blood, the kidneys also regulate blood pressure, balance body fluids, support red blood cell production, and maintain healthy bones. Understanding what kidneys are and how they function provides valuable insights into their importance for health. This article explores the structure, function, and essential role of the kidneys in the body. The kidneys are essential organs responsible for filtering blood, balancing fluids, regulating blood pressure, supporting red blood cell production, and promoting bone health. When kidney function is compromised, it can lead to serio...
Read more

What are the Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer?

Image
Introduction Kidney cancer is a serious disease that occurs when abnormal cells in the kidneys begin to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located just below the ribcage on either side of the spine. Their primary role is to filter blood, remove waste, and balance fluids in the body. When kidney cancer develops, it can disrupt these vital functions and, if left untreated, may spread to other parts of the body. Kidney cancer is one of the more common cancers in adults, with early detection playing a crucial role in successful treatment. This article explains what kidney cancer is, highlights its symptoms and causes, and outlines the treatment options available to patients, caregivers, and loved ones. Kidney cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the kidneys begin to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. It often does not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer progresses, certain signs and symptoms such as blood in the urine, bac...
Read more