Renal(ree-nal) means pertaining to the kidneys; carcinoma (car-sa-noma) is a type of cancer which originates in the epithelial (epa-thee-lee-ul) cells located in glands, skin, and mucous membranes. Usually, kidney failure is best treated by removal of the diseased organ. Since most kidney cancers affect only one organ, the patient can function well with the remaining kidney. Even if cancer affects both kidneys, the tumors may be removed while still salvaging sufficient functioning kidney tissue. The kidneys play a crucial role in the body's circulatory and urinary systems by filtering waste products and toxins from the blood while returning nutrients to the bloodstream and controlling blood pressure. Even though the kidneys are vital to survival, people can function with only one, which allows for donation of a healthy kidney. Unfortunately, this also means that many people do not become aware that they have kidney disease until one of the kidneys has very little function. Protect yourself: have regular exams and stay alert to changes in your body. Remember that early detection gives you the best chance to be cured. For more information about renal carcinoma, consult your health care provider.
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