Name of the Condition

• Malignant neoplasm of unspecified kidney, except renal pelvis
• Commonly referred to as kidney cancer or renal cancer.

Summary

• This condition refers to a cancerous growth in the kidney tissue that is unspecified but excludes the renal pelvis. The cancer can interfere with the kidney's ability to filter waste and balance fluids.

Causes

• The exact cause of kidney cancer is not known. However, factors like genetic mutations, lifestyle choices (e.g., smoking), and certain inherited conditions may contribute to its development.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors include being over 50 years old, smoking, obesity, hypertension, certain hereditary conditions (e.g., von Hippel-Lindau disease), and prolonged use of certain pain medications.

Symptoms

• Symptoms might include blood in urine, persistent pain in the back or side, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and a lump or mass in the kidney area.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a combination of approaches such as imaging tests (CT or MRI scans), blood tests, urine tests, and possibly a biopsy to examine the kidney tissue.

Treatment Options

• Treatment options range from surgery (nephrectomy) to remove the tumor or entire kidney, to targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Radiation and chemotherapy may be used in certain cases to reduce tumor size or manage symptoms.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The prognosis depends on the stage and spread of the cancer when diagnosed. Early-stage kidney cancers have a better outlook. Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor for recurrence or response to treatment.

Complications

• Complications may include metastasis to other organs, kidney failure, and side effects from treatment such as nausea and fatigue.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure, and eating a balanced diet can help manage or lower the risk.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing persistent blood in the urine, severe side or back pain, or unintended weight loss.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society: www.cancer.org
• Kidney Cancer Association: www.kidneycancer.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the location of the cancer is accurately specified to avoid confusion with other renal cancers.
• Be mindful that C64.9 excludes malignant neoplasms of the renal pelvis (coded separately).