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Screening for Kidney Cancer

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Screening is a way to evaluate people without symptoms to determine if they are at risk for cancer or have already developed cancer.

Screening involves:

  • Assessment of your medical history and lifestyle habits that may increase your risk of kidney cancer
  • Tests to identify early signs of kidney cancer

Screening Guidelines

Screening is recommended only for people with certain risk factors, such as Von Hippel-Lindau disease or those receiving dialysis .

Screening Tests

CT scan —This is a type of x-ray that uses a computer to produce cross-sectional images of the inside of the body.

MRI scan —This test uses magnetic waves to produce images of the inside of the body. Using a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer, an MRI produces 2D and 3D pictures.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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References

  • American Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/home/index.asp?level=0 .

  • Kidney Cancer Association website. Available at: http://www.kidneycancerassociation.org/ .

  • National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/ .

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