Will kidney cancer recur after removing one kidney in the early stage?

Renal cancer may still recur after one kidney is removed in the early stage. The risk of recurrence is closely related to the tumor stage, pathological type and postoperative management. Regular follow-up after surgery, a healthy lifestyle and adjuvant therapy can reduce the probability of recurrence. The causes of recurrence of renal cancer include residual tumor cells, metastasis and individual differences. Postoperative treatment needs to be formulated according to the patient's condition, including targeted therapy, immunotherapy and radiotherapy.

The risk factors for recurrence of kidney cancer are complex and varied. Tumor staging is an important indicator. The recurrence rate of early kidney cancer is low, but the risk of recurrence increases significantly in patients with advanced stages. Pathological type also affects the probability of recurrence, and clear cell carcinoma is more likely to recur than other types. Factors such as whether the surgical resection is thorough and whether there is lymph node metastasis will also affect the risk of recurrence. Postoperative management is crucial to preventing recurrence, and regular follow-up can detect signs of recurrence early.

Postoperative treatment strategies need to be individualized. Targeted drugs such as sunitinib and sorafenib can inhibit tumor growth and are suitable for patients at high risk of recurrence. Immunotherapy drugs such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab fight tumors by activating the immune system. Radiotherapy can control local recurrence, especially in patients with bone metastasis. Postoperative lifestyle adjustments are equally important. Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, eating a balanced diet, and exercising moderately can help improve immunity.

The postoperative follow-up plan needs to be strictly implemented. Imaging examinations such as CT and MRI can detect recurrence lesions early, and it is recommended to review them every 3-6 months. Blood tests include monitoring of indicators such as renal function and tumor markers. Psychological counseling helps patients cope with postoperative anxiety, and professional psychological counseling can be sought when necessary. The family support system is crucial to the patient's recovery, and family members should provide full care and companionship.

Although there is a risk of recurrence after early resection of one kidney for renal cancer, the progression of the disease can be effectively controlled and the quality of life can be improved through standardized treatment, strict follow-up and health management. Patients should actively cooperate with the doctor's treatment plan, maintain an optimistic attitude, establish a healthy lifestyle, have regular checkups, and promptly detect and deal with signs of recurrence to strive for the best prognosis.