A look at the different tests you can expect to have to confirm a diagnosis of kidney cancer.
An antegrade pyelogram is an imaging test to find a blockage (obstruction) in the upper urinary tract. Read on to learn about what to expect before, during, and after this test.
An abdominal ultrasound is an imaging test used to assess the organs and structures in the belly. Read on to learn what to expect before, during, and after the test.
CT scan is a type of imaging test. It uses X-rays and computer technology to make images or slices of the body. A CT scan can make detailed pictures of any part of the body. This includes the bones, muscles, fat, organs, and blood vessels. They are more detailed than regular X-rays.
An intravenous pyelogram is an imaging test used to look at the kidneys and ureters. The ureters are the narrow tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
A biopsy is done to remove tissue or cells from the body for exam under a microscope. The tissue sample is removed with a needle to check for cancer or other abnormal cells. It also helps check how well the kidney is working.
A kidney scan is a specialized radiology procedure used to assess the function and structure of the kidneys, as well as the perfusion (blood flow) to the kidney tissue.
A kidney ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to look at your kidneys. It can check the size, shape, and location of your kidneys. It also lets your healthcare provider see how well blood is flowing in your kidneys.
A renal angiogram is an imaging test to look at the blood vessels in your kidneys. Your healthcare provider can use it to look at the ballooning of a blood vessel (aneurysm), narrowing of a blood vessel (stenosis), or blockages in a blood vessel. They can also see how well blood is flowing to your kidneys.
Being told you have kidney cancer can be scary, and you may have many questions. But you have people on your healthcare team to help.
After a diagnosis of kidney cancer, you'll likely need other tests. These tests help your healthcare providers learn more about the cancer.
A helpful introduction to kidney cancer.
Once your healthcare provider knows you have cancer, the next step is to find out the grade and stage of the cancer. Stage is a way to note the size of the tumor, and if it has spread. Grade is a way to note how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope.