Active surveillance and observation of a kidney tumor by serial imaging. All small masses are not cancer, and for others with known cancers, the risk of progression is low when the tumor is small. Moreover, the tumors that are predominately cystic (tumors filled with fluid) are less likely to progress. In such patients, the risk of intervention may outweigh the risks from the tumor itself. This is not enough for some patients as there are stimuli which point out further therapy is still necessary.
"Patients whose tumors measure less than 2 centimeters are optimal candidates for active surveillance in light of the low propensity for the cancer to spread throughout the time of observation, Singla says. But patients with tumors up to 4 centimeters are safely followed based on multiple factors.
Your doctor may recommend this if you:
Possess poor renal function: If your kidneys are poor, you will be placed under active surveillance to prevent the likelihood of having dialysis since any medical procedure involving the kidney may lead to further deteriorations of the kidney function. Although it saves your life, dialysis might affect your life expectancy and quality. Singla says that a patient's doctor will observe his or her creatinine levels or estimated glomerular filtration rate to assess the extent of kidney function impairment.
Live with hereditary forms of kidney cancer, such as Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, and others that predispose you to developing multiple tumors on each side. Tumors are typically monitored with an active surveillance approach until they attain 3 centimeters in size or greater. Such syndromes require diagnostic testing via genetic evaluation.
Have drug-eluting heart stents and/or must be on a blood thinner. Kidney surgery and other interventions can lead to life-threatening bleeding. A period of active surveillance until one is off the blood thinners can be helpful to avoid a potentially severe complication.
Older and medically fragile: Small kidney tumors are very unlikely to have spread. Elderly patients with significant other medical conditions should discuss whether active surveillance is appropriate.
Are experiencing or recovering from an active medical severe problem. An interval of active surveillance can monitor a kidney tumor until you recover.
Do not want to have surgery or treatment.
Those with predominantly cystic tumors. Studies have shown that these are less likely to progress even when more significant.
Singla says that plan can be specific to the patient's treatment. "Treatment may start with a comprehensive workup for staging (blood tests and CT, MRI, or ultrasound of your chest, abdomen, and pelvis) to rule out the spread of cancer. A biopsy may be undertaken for further information but is not necessary. The doctor may recommend imaging every six months for two years and every six to twelve months annually.
Maybe, it can spread when on active surveillance.
The answer is a sad yes. However, it is very low, around less than 2% risk. The risk for smaller tumors is lower but significantly increases with increasing tumor sizes. All people and tumors differ, and this risk should be discussed with your urologist. Proper patient selection and follow-up can minimize this risk. Any abnormal growth on imaging may warrant intervention rather than continued observation.
For many patients, active monitoring is still a safe first line of treatment. Treatment choices are not limited or oncologic results are compromised by [delaying action]. “Lifelong follow-up imaging commitment is necessary.
Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital is one of the best hospitals for Active Surveillance for Kidney Cancer in Lucknow, India. Our experienced uro-oncologists use advanced tools to give accurate results, quick diagnosis, and better long-term care. We offer the best evaluation and treatment support with effective and affordable pricing, making the Active Surveillance for Kidney Cancer cost suitable for patients seeking high quality urologic cancer treatment in Lucknow, India.
Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com