A rare kind of kidney cancer is sarcomatoid renal cancer.
Clear cells are where most kidney tumors begin, however they can also begin in other cells. Sarcomatoid tumors can arise from almost any kind of renal cell carcinoma. This indicates that the cancer cells resemble sarcoma cells (cancer of the connective tissues, such as muscles, nerves, fat, blood vessels and fibrous tissue).
Sarcomatoid renal tumors develop faster and are more prone to spread to other regions of the body than other forms of kidney cancer. As a result, treating them becomes more challenging.
Diagnosis and symptoms
Sarcomatoid kidney cancer has symptoms that are similar to those of kidney cancer. The tests required to diagnose it are also the same:
- Ultrasound scan: Ultrasound scans provide an image of your organs within your body using high-frequency sound waves. Take a look at how you're doing on this exam.
- CT urogram: A CT urogram, or CT scan of your urinary system, may be necessary. Take a look at how you're doing on this exam.
- Cystoscopy: A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the interior of your bladder.
- Kidney biopsy: This test may be ordered by your doctor to assist confirm your diagnosis or if you are scheduled for treatment for kidney cancer that has spread.
Treatment
If you have a kidney cancer, surgery is the most common therapy.
You may receive targeted cancer medications or other therapies if there is a significant danger of the cancer returning.
You may be prescribed targeted cancer medications if your cancer has spread or cannot be removed surgically. A clinical study could be an option for you.
Chemotherapy is rarely effective in the treatment of sarcomatoid kidney cancer. However, for some patients, it may help to manage their cancer and slow or stop its progression.
Doctors often utilize chemotherapy medicines that are comparable to those used to treat other forms of sarcoma. This is frequently a cocktail of various chemotherapeutic medications.
Sarcomatoid renal cell cancer is being studied by doctors to see how best to employ targeted cancer medicines. They're also attempting to determine which people will benefit the most from these therapies.
Coping
It's extremely tough to deal with a rare cancer diagnosis. It might be beneficial to be well-informed about your cancer and its treatment. It can help you make better judgments and deal with what happens.
Talking to other individuals who are going through the same situation might also be beneficial.