Diagnosed with tumor on kidney: What question to ask the urologist?

@pattymltn, @quirky9
My 2 malignant tumors on my left kidney were lower pole 5cm and upper pole 2 cm. Very thankful was able to have partial nephrectomy, the thought of being 1 kidney away from dialysis scares me. I also have a 1.3cm cyst on the other kidney that is now considered "suspicious for neoplasm". I go to Mayo every 6 mos for checks because Im considered Intermediate risk for recurrence. I eat for my labs... never smoked, quit any alcohol or sugar, seldom eat processed foods. Bought a stationery cycle and bike 6 mi/30 min daily. So far, the Beast is not winning; has not raised its ugly head for nearly 2 yrs. Fighting this with every bit of ambition and stamina I can find! Best of luck, best wishes, prayers and hugs to you both!

@pattymltn
I have no history of cancer on either side of my family. There were several smokers. Because I have had Chronic Kidney Disease related to high blood pressure, or being overweight is a risk factor. It is mild to moderate. CKD is a risk for tumors. That is why my doctor sent me for ultrasound to check my kidneys. I was and am asymptomatic. I would not have known I had the tumor without the ultrasound. So many are found when scans are done for something else. Different ages from late 20s to 70s can have renal cancer. I have lost some weight due more to stress I think. Thank you for asking. Good luck with everything!

@quirky9 No, no reason for the tumor given. No family history or previous cancer. How did you find out you had a tumor? I had slowly rising liver enzymes over a period of 5 years. Are you feeling well?

I hope your meeting went well with urology. Did they give a possible reason for the tumor? Mine was found May 1st ultrasound 6 cm, mide pole near renal pelvis. I have to a radical nephrectomy because the size make is suspect for malignancy. You should be able to do a successful treatment or partial given that is upper pole and smaller than 4 cm. Good luck on your journey.

@pattymltn If they say you need to have a radical nephrectomy get as 2nd opinion just to be sure. I still have my kidney 4 years after I was told i needed a radical nephrectomy for UTUC.

Thanks, this is helpful. Good Video. I have had to wait a month since the tumor was found so I have had time to research. My guess is that I will have a choice of either Cryoablation or partial nephrectomy.

@pattymltn
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352669
Best wishes. They saved my life at Mayo 2 yrs ago.
/s/ Wendy (gangcarotid1)