The kidneys play a critical role in filtering waste products from the blood, regulating fluid balance, and producing vital hormones. Kidney health complications such as kidney cancer, kidney stones, and renal masses can severely impact these functions. WashU Medicine’s expert urologic surgeons are at the forefront of diagnosing and treating these conditions, ensuring the highest quality of care for our patients.
Detection and screening methods
Early detection and screening of kidney health problems are crucial for effective treatment. The National Kidney Foundation recommends regular check-ups and monitoring, especially for individuals who are at higher risk. Some risk factors include smoking, excess body weight, high blood pressure, and family history of kidney disease.
Specialists at WashU Medicine are experts in the latest screening methods. Regular screening methods include, routine blood tests to measure levels of waste products in the blood to assess kidney function. Urine tests check for albumin and creatinine levels. Imaging tests ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI to detect structural abnormalities. Biopsies can diagnose the type and stage of kidney disease.
Get screened by a specialist from the Division of Urology at WashU Medicine.
Kidney cancers
Kidney cancer represents a significant health challenge but can be detected early through vigilant screening.
Kidney cancer encompasses several types, with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) being the most common. Treatment options for RCC include surgery (partial or radical nephrectomy), ablation techniques (cryoablation or radiofrequency ablation), targeted therapies that attack cancer cell pathways, and immunotherapy to enhance the body’s immune response. Transitional cell carcinoma, affecting the kidney lining, is treated similarly to bladder cancer, while Wilms Tumor, a pediatric form of kidney cancer, typically involves surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiotherapy.
Kidney stones
Kidney stones are hard deposits formed from minerals and salts that can cause severe pain and urinary problems. Dehydration leading to concentrated urine, diets high in oxalates, salt, and protein, and medical conditions like gout are common causes. Symptoms include intense pain in the back or side, blood in the urine, and painful, frequent urination. Preventative measures include staying well-hydrated, reducing intake of salt, animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods, and using medications when necessary.
Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause intense pain and urinary issues.
Renal Mass
A kidney (renal) mass is an abnormal growth in the kidney, which can be benign or malignant. Causes include genetic factors, lifestyle choices such as smoking and obesity, and medical conditions like high blood pressure. Many renal masses are asymptomatic and found incidentally, though they can sometimes cause hematuria and flank pain. Management strategies include regular imaging to monitor small masses, surgical removal if the mass shows growth or malignancy, and biopsy to determine the nature of the mass.
Take control
For evaluation or treatment of kidney health issues, contact a urologist at WashU Medicine at 314-362-8200. Schedule an appointment with our expert urologic surgeons to ensure your kidneys remain in optimal health.
Stay vigilant about your kidney health and seek professional care for any concerns. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in outcomes.