Clear cell renal cell carcinoma

Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (CCRCC) is a type of renal cell carcinoma that is characterized by the presence of clear cells in the tumor. It is the most common subtype of renal cell carcinoma, accounting for approximately 70-80% of all cases.

Etiology

The exact cause of CCRCC is not known, but several risk factors have been identified. These include smoking, obesity, hypertension, and certain genetic conditions such as Von Hippel-Lindau disease.

Pathophysiology

CCRCC originates from the proximal tubular epithelium in the kidney. The clear cells in the tumor are so named because they appear clear or pale when viewed under a microscope. This is due to their high lipid and glycogen content, which is dissolved during the preparation of the tissue for microscopic examination.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with CCRCC may present with a variety of symptoms, including hematuria, flank pain, and a palpable mass in the abdomen. However, many cases are asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally during imaging studies for unrelated conditions.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of CCRCC is typically made based on imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), followed by a biopsy of the tumor. The biopsy is examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of clear cells.

Treatment

The primary treatment for CCRCC is surgical removal of the tumor, either through a partial or radical nephrectomy. In cases where surgery is not possible, targeted therapies may be used. These therapies work by blocking the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Prognosis

The prognosis for CCRCC varies widely depending on the stage of the disease at diagnosis. Early-stage tumors that are confined to the kidney have a good prognosis, while advanced tumors that have spread to other parts of the body have a poorer prognosis.