What is the prognosis (outlook)?
The outlook is best in those who are diagnosed when the cancer is confined within a kidney, has not spread, and who are otherwise in general good health. Surgical removal of an affected kidney in this situation gives a good chance of cure. However, many people with kidney cancer are diagnosed when the cancer has already spread. In this situation a cure is less likely. However, treatment can often slow down the progression of the cancer.
The response to treatment can also vary from case to case. This may be partly related to the exact sub-type or grade of the cancer. Some kidney cancers, even some which are advanced and have has spread, respond much better to immunotherapy than others.
The treatment of cancer is a developing area of medicine. New treatments continue to be developed and the information on outlook above is very general. The specialist who knows your case can give more accurate information about your particular outlook, and how well your type and stage of cancer is likely to respond to treatment.
Further help and information
Kidney Cancer UK
50 Lower Pastures, Great Oakley, Corby, Northamptonshire, NN18 8JJ
Tel (Helpline): 024 7647 4993
Web: www.kcuk.org.
Provides information and support to kidney cancer patients and their carers.
CancerBACUP
3 Bath Place, Rivington Street, London, EC2A 3JR?
Tel: 0808 800 1234
Web: www.cancerbacup.org.uk.
Provides information and support to anyone affected by cancer.
Cancer Research UK
Their website www.cancerhelp.org.uk provides facts about cancer including treatment choices.
Other support groups
See www.patient.co.uk/selfhelp.asp for a list of self help and support groups for cancer patients.
Average rating:
