Kidney Cancer: An Overview
The types and signs of kidney cancer, and how it is detected.
Last updated: 2026-09-24
Kidney cancer most commonly arises from the lining of the kidney tubules (renal cell carcinoma). It is often found incidentally on scans.
Possible signs
- Blood in the urine
- A lump or pain in the side
- Unexplained weight loss or fever
Detection
Imaging such as ultrasound or CT is how most kidney cancers are found. Early, small tumours are often treatable with surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Is kidney cancer curable?
When found early and confined to the kidney, it is often curable with surgery.