Dr Michael Wong is a USA-fellowship trained senior urologist with an exceptional international standing, having received some of the highest recognitions across three continents.
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Restore Your Urological Health.
Make an appointment with Dr Michael Wong to receive a tailored, supportive and targeted care plan.
One-stop diagnosis and treatment centre of excellence for your urological, fertility or gynaecological problems
Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer accounts for about 1-2% of cancers in Singapore. Like most types of cancer, it is treatable if detected and managed in its early stages. Kidney cancer treatments may include surgery, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and more, depending on the stage and severity of the cancer.
Medically reviewed by Dr Michael Wong, Medical Director & Senior Consultant Urologist
FAMS (Urology),FICS (USA),FRCS (Edinburgh),M Med (Surgery),MBBS (S’pore)
What Is Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the kidney, a bean-shaped organ that eliminates waste from the body through urine and helps control blood pressure. The condition results from the growth of abnormal cells in the kidney tissue, causing a tumour to develop. In Singapore, kidney cancer is one of the top 10 most common cancers. In particular, men between the ages of 60 and 70 are at a higher risk of developing kidney cancer.
What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer usually does not exhibit any symptoms during its early stages. In the later stages, signs and symptoms of kidney cancer may include:
Blood in the urine
Fatigue
Lower back or side pain and discomfort
Abdominal mass or lump
Unexplained weight loss
Fever
If you are experiencing these signs and symptoms, consult our kidney cancer specialist for a personalised diagnosis and treatment.
What Are The Types of Kidney Cancers?
Kidney cancer can be classified into several types, including:
Renal cell carcinoma
This is the most common type of kidney cancer that accounts for approximately 85–90% of all diagnoses.
Urothelial carcinoma
Known as transitional cell carcinoma, this occurs in the renal pelvis, a funnel-shaped area where urine is collected before it is transmitted to the bladder.
Wilms tumour
Also called nephroblastoma, Wilms tumour is a type of kidney cancer that commonly develops in children. The condition usually affects children between the ages of 3 and 4 years old.
Renal sarcoma
This is a rare type of kidney cancer characterised by the development of cancerous cells in the blood vessels or connective tissues of the kidney.
Early detection leads to better treatment options and outcomes.
If you are experiencing potential kidney cancer symptoms, schedule a consultation with our urologist at +65 6838 1212.
Cancer of the kidney has no specific known cause. A number of risk factors, however, contribute to an increased likelihood of developing the disease. These include:
Smoking
Certain genetics conditions
High blood pressure
Family history of kidney cancer
Obesity
Long-term use of certain medications
How Is Kidney Cancer Detected?
In order to diagnose kidney cancer, a kidney cancer clinic performs a number of tests and procedures, including the following:
Ultrasound or Computed Tomography (CT) scan
An imaging test can provide detailed images of the kidneys and determine the extent and characteristics of a kidney tumour.
Kidney biopsy
To detect signs of kidney cancer, a thin needle may be inserted into the kidney to obtain a sample of cells for laboratory analysis.
Cystoscopy
By inserting a thin, flexible tube with a lens and light called a cystoscope, the doctor can examine the urethra, prostate, and bladder in real time to detect blood in the urine and kidney cancer.
What Are The Treatments for Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer treatment often starts with surgery to remove the cancer, particularly when it is localised. Depending on the type of cancer and tumour extent, treatments include:
Surgery
Surgery is initially meant to remove the tumour while maintaining the functionality of the kidneys. In advanced stages, it may be necessary to partially or entirely remove the kidneys. Ultimately, there are different types of kidney cancer surgery, depending on the extent of the cancer.
Radiofrequency ablation
This uses electric currents to destroy cancerous cells via the insertion of a needle through the skin and into the kidney tumour.
Active surveillance
In mild cases, this simply involves regular imaging to monitor the development of kidney tumours.
Chemotherapy
This uses anti-cancer medications administered through the mouth or a vein (IV).
Immunotherapy
Certain medications are given to boost the immune system in order to aid the body in identifying and fighting off cancerous cells.
Are There Any Risks In Undergoing Kidney Surgery?
Kidney surgery carries the following risks:
Formation of blood clots and bleeding
Unsuccessful or rejected donated kidney
Blockage or leakage of the ureter
Infection
However, when in the hands of an experienced urologist, you can rest assured of a safe treatment and aftercare journey.
Let us help you Restore your urological health.
Make an appointment with Dr Michael Wong to receive a tailored, supportive and targeted care plan.
Office Location
3 Mount Elizabeth Road, #10-09, Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
