Navigating kidney cancer can be difficult. But getting a quick, accurate diagnosis means you’re more likely to beat it.
At the Abramson Cancer Center, we take advantage of each moment you spend with us. Our kidney cancer team works together to get you answers fast and treatment when it matters most.
How Is Kidney Cancer Diagnosed?
Our kidney cancer specialists have deep experience in the most advanced diagnostic techniques. They are also studying better and more precise ways to detect it.
If your doctor suspects kidney cancer, you undergo a physical exam to check your overall health. If anything suggests kidney cancer, you may undergo further testing including:
- Blood and urine tests to check your blood and urine for signs of cancer
- MRI to see if the tumor has affected structures around the kidneys
- Kidney CT scan to see the size of the tumor and if it has metastasized
- Kidney function test (intravenous pyelogram) to see how the kidneys are working
- Renal ultrasound to locate the tumor and see if it’s cancerous
- Kidney biopsy to remove a sample of kidney tissue or cells so a pathologist can examine them under a microscope
Screening for Kidney Cancer
Health care providers use screening tests to find some types of cancer early. Currently, there is no routine screening for kidney cancer. But if you have a family history of kidney cancer or several risk factors, you should speak with your physician about screening for kidney cancer.
Our genetic counselors and doctors help unlock the mysteries hidden in your DNA. Together, you use this information to better understand your health and make more informed care decisions.
Learn more about cancer risk evaluation programs at Penn.
Kidney Cancer Diagnosis: Why Choose the Abramson Cancer Center?
When you choose us for your care, you benefit from a multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists. This team includes urologists, interventional radiologists, surgeons and pathologists — all working together to provide you with an accurate diagnosis. Then you can receive the right treatments, customized to you.
You also benefit from:
- Timely diagnoses: Our highly trained doctors and advanced practice providers (APPs) help you receive an accurate diagnosis fast. Our APPs are leaders in urologic cancer care. They stay current with the latest kidney cancer advances and help improve patient care through research. They also help prevent delays by helping you understand and receive the tests you need.
- Dedicated GU cancer pathologists and radiologists: Certain lab and imaging tests are critical for an accurate and detailed diagnosis. Our pathologists and radiologists oversee and analyze these tests, including kidney biopsies and kidney CT scans. Because they specialize in kidney cancer, their efforts help them catch things others may miss. Their expertise leads to more effective treatment plans.
- Comprehensive kidney cancer treatment: As a large urologic cancer program, we can offer advanced treatments that aren’t available elsewhere. Our kidney cancer experts meet regularly to talk through challenging cases and create treatment plans that consider every possible angle. Read more about how to treat kidney cancer.
Get a Second Opinion on Your Kidney Cancer
If you’ve been diagnosed with kidney cancer and want a second opinion, we can help. Call 215-360-0583 to connect with an oncology nurse navigator.
We will need:
- Imaging relevant to your diagnosis
- Pathology reports for your diagnosis
- Any operative notes from your doctors
Our urologic cancer specialists review your medical information, current diagnosis and materials. They then give you a thorough treatment recommendation so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Make an Appointment
Please call 800-789-7366 or request a callback.