About 50,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with kidney cancer every year. The kidneys are a pair of kidney bean-shaped organs, located above the waist on either side of the spine, that filter and clean blood and produce urine.
The most common adult kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma, which forms in the lining of small tubes in the kidney. Children usually develop a different form of kidney cancer called Wilms' tumor.
Our Approach to Kidney Cancer
UCSF's urologic oncologists are internationally recognized experts in the treatment of kidney cancer. We offer the most current diagnostic tools and treatments, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, which harnesses the body's immune system to fight the cancer. Our patients also have access to the latest experimental therapies being tested in clinical trials. In addition, we provide patient education and support groups.
Finally, our urologists are leaders in cancer risk assessment, genetic testing and prevention.
Awards & recognition
Among the top hospitals in the nation
Best in Northern California for urology
Best in Northern California for cancer care (tie)
in NIH funding for urology research
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.