Kulsum International Hospital

Transitional Cell Cancer of the Kidney

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Transitional cell cancer of the kidney is less common than renal cell carcinoma. It is related to bladder cancer, so people with it also need regular checks of the bladder.

Symptoms

  • Blood in the urine
  • Pain in the side or back
  • Tiredness and weight loss
  • Pain when passing urine in some cases

Causes and risk factors

Risk factors include smoking, older age, exposure to certain industrial chemicals and dyes, long-term use of some painkillers and a history of bladder cancer.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis uses urine tests, CT urography, ureteroscopy with biopsy and cystoscopy to check the bladder.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the kidney and ureter (nephroureterectomy). Small, low-grade tumours may be treated through a scope. Chemotherapy and immunotherapy are used for advanced cancer.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor for any blood in the urine, even if it is painless or goes away.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Our doctors

Consultants in the KIH departments that diagnose and treat Transitional Cell Cancer of the Kidney.

Brig. Dr. Nadir Ali
Hematology & Oncology

Brig. Dr. Nadir Ali

Consultant Hematologist & Oncologist

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Dr. Qasim Mahmood Buttar
Hematology & Oncology

Dr. Qasim Mahmood Buttar

Consultant Hematologist & Oncologist

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