Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, encompasses several types, with the most common being renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The main types of kidney cancer include:
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): RCC is the most common type of kidney cancer, accounting for about 85-90% of cases. There are several subtypes of RCC, including:
a. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC): This is the most common subtype, accounting for approximately 70-75% of RCC cases. It is characterized by clear cells when viewed under a microscope and has various genetic and molecular features.
b. Papillary renal cell carcinoma (pRCC): This subtype accounts for about 10-15% of RCC cases. It is characterized by the presence of papillary structures when viewed under a microscope and can be further classified into type 1 and type 2 based on certain features.
c. Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma: This subtype represents about 5% of RCC cases. It is characterized by distinct cells with pale, eosinophilic cytoplasm when viewed under a microscope.
d. Collecting duct carcinoma (CDC): CDC is a rare and aggressive subtype of RCC that arises from the collecting ducts of the kidney.
Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC): Also known as urothelial carcinoma, TCC originates from the transitional epithelial cells lining the renal pelvis, ureters, or bladder. It is less common than RCC and is usually associated with smoking and exposure to certain chemicals.
Renal Sarcoma: Renal sarcomas are rare tumors that develop from the connective tissues of the kidney, such as muscle, fat, or blood vessels.