What Are Renal / Kidney Masses?
Renal masses are abnormal growths located within the kidney that may be benign or cancerous in nature. Located around the middle of the back and under the ribcage, kidneys are organs that filter blood by removing water and waste byproducts from the body. When a mass (also referred to as a lesion or tumor) is present, it may impair normal kidney function or even lead to other health concerns. Urologists are often involved in the management of care for benign and cancerous renal (kidney) tumors.
Drs. Ahmad and Ali Kasraeian are board-certified urologists in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, FL who are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating kidney masses. Our distinguished specialists utilize the latest in technology to detect renal lesions and provide optimal care in the most minimally invasive manner possible. If you have symptoms of a kidney mass, have been diagnosed with kidney cancer, or have concerns about your renal health, please schedule a private consultation or virtual telemedicine visit with one of our caring doctors at Kasraeian Urology.
What Are the Causes of Renal / Kidney Masses?
Renal masses have no one medically defined cause. However, risk factors for kidney masses or tumors may include:
- Genetics or genetic disorders, such as polycystic kidney disease or Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome
- Smoking
- Obesity or consuming an unhealthy diet
- Exposure to specific chemicals
- High blood pressure
- Being on kidney dialysis
Additionally, research indicates that repeated nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use may be a risk factor, but more studies are needed to confirm this link.
What Are the Symptoms & Risk Factors for Renal Masses?
It's common for patients with kidney tumors or cancer to experience no symptoms, especially when masses are smaller in size. In fact, kidney tumors are often discovered by accident, for instance when a physician is evaluating another health issue through imaging or other diagnostic screenings. In some cases, however, renal masses may have signs and symptoms that include:
- Blood in urine
- Lower-to-middle back pain
- Bulging of the lower-to-middle back
- Weight loss or loss of appetite
- Low energy and fatigue
Though the precise cause of kidney tumors and cancer is not clear, there are certain factors that may increase a person’s risk for these types of conditions, such as:
- Alcohol use
- Smoking
- Poor diet
- Genetics
- Obesity
- Kidney dialysis
- Certain medications
- Advanced renal disease
- Exposure to certain chemicals
- History of high blood pressure
How Are Renal / Kidney Masses Treated?
During your initial consultation, Drs. Kasraeian will listen to any symptoms and concerns you have and will then plan the most appropriate forms of diagnostic testing. Our specialists use a host of advanced, cutting-edge imaging techniques, including MRI-guided biopsies, CT scans, and ultrasound technology, to diagnose and evaluate renal masses and kidney conditions. Once they have a full understanding of your condition, Drs. Kasraeian can help you determine the ideal course of treatment, which may include a surgical procedure, active surveillance, or other options. As experienced surgeons, Drs. Kasraeian also provide second opinions to help patients make educated decisions about their health and choose the best kidney tumor treatment for their individual needs.
Renal / Kidney Masses FAQ
What is the most common renal mass?
There are two types of renal masses: cystic and solid lesions. The most common type are cysts, totaling about 27 percent of patients aged 50 or older.
What is a renal mass?
A renal mass is a tumor or abnormal growth in the kidney. They can vary in size and either be benign or cancerous. These masses can impact your health and quality of life. If you have concerns about your kidney health, consult Drs. Ahmad and Ali Kasraeian for an examination.
What percentage of renal masses are cancerous?
Only about one in four masses are cancerous, with the majority of smaller masses being benign. That means only about 25 percent of diagnosed renal masses are cancerous.
How do I know if my kidney mass is cancerous?
Initially, you may not have any symptoms at all. After a consultation and testing, Drs. Ahmad and Ali Kasraeian will schedule a CT scan or MRI to view your kidneys and, if necessary, do a biopsy to determine if your kidney mass is cancerous. They will then formulate the best course of treatment for you.
Can kidney masses be prevented?
While not all kidney masses are preventable, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding tobacco, and managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can reduce the risk of certain kidney issues.
When should I seek medical attention for a kidney mass?
It's important to consult with a member of our team in Jacksonville, FL promptly if you have any signs or symptoms of a kidney mass, such as blood in the urine, abdominal pain, or an unexplained mass in the abdomen.
What follow-up care is necessary after treatment of a kidney mass?
After treatment, regular follow-up appointments and imaging tests are typically recommended to monitor for any recurrence or new developments. This ensures early detection and intervention if needed.
Expert Care for Kidney Lesions
Not all kidney tumors are cancerous, but it is important to investigate any renal abnormalities that arise and understand your options for care. Drs. Kasraeian offer their expertise and refined skill in the diagnosis and treatment of renal masses to men and women in the Jacksonville, FL region. For information on insurance coverage, personal costs, or to book a visit with one of our world-class surgeons, please contact Kasraeian Urology today.
