Blog Image

All-Inclusive Guide to Kidney Cancer Treatment in the UAE

09 Jul, 2024

Blog author iconDr. Divya Nagpal
Share

Have you or a family member recently been diagnosed with kidney cancer? It's a lot to process, isn't it? Your mind is probably racing with questions. What stage is the cancer? What are the treatment options? And most importantly, where can you find the best care to give you the highest chance of beating this? The weight of these questions can be crushing. You want to take action, but the complexity of cancer treatment, especially in a foreign country, can leave you feeling paralyzed. Where do you even start?

We're here to tell you that there's hope. The UAE has become a beacon for kidney cancer treatment, offering state-of-the-art facilities and internationally renowned specialists. In this all-inclusive guide, we'll walk you through every aspect of kidney cancer treatment in the UAE, empowering you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your health.

Transform Your Beauty, Boost Your Confidence

Find the right cosmetic procedure for your needs.

Healthtrip icon

We specialize in a wide range of cosmetic procedures

Procedure


Calculate Treatment Cost, Check Symptoms, Explore Doctors and Hospitals

Symptoms of Kidney Cancer

Common symptoms of kidney cancer can include:


  • a. Blood in Urine: One of the main signs of kidney cancer is seeing blood in your pee, which can be pink, red, or like cola. It might show up suddenly or from time to time.

    • Most popular procedures in India

    Total Hip Replacemen

    Upto 80% off

    90% Rated

    Satisfactory

    Total Hip Replacement (Unilateral)

    Total Hip Replacemen

    Upto 80% off

    90% Rated

    Satisfactory

    Total Hip Replacement (B/L)

    Total Hip Replacemen

    Upto 80% off

    90% Rated

    Satisfactory

    Total Hip Replacement-B/L

    ASD Closure

    Upto 80% off

    90% Rated

    Satisfactory

    ASD Closure

    Liver Transplant Sur

    Upto 80% off

    90% Rated

    Satisfactory

    Liver Transplant Surgery

  • b. Pain in the Side or Back: Kidney cancer can make your side or lower back hurt persistently, just under your ribs. It could feel like a dull ache or a sharp pain that doesn't go away, even with pain meds or rest.


  • c. Lump or Mass: Sometimes, you might feel a lump or mass in your side or belly area where your kidney is located. This might be found during a self-check or by your doctor during an exam.


  • d. Fatigue and Weight Loss: Feeling more tired than usual or losing weight without trying could be signs of kidney cancer. Cancer can affect how your body uses energy and your metabolism.


  • e. Intermittent Fever: Kidney cancer might cause a fever that comes and goes, along with night sweats and chills.


  • f. Anaemia: As kidney cancer progresses, it can lead to anaemia, where you have fewer red blood cells. This can make you feel weak and tired, and your skin might look paler.


  • g. Swelling: Sometimes, kidney cancer can lead to swelling in your legs and ankles due to fluid buildup caused by kidney problems.


    • It's important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other conditions, and not everyone with kidney cancer will experience all of these symptoms.


    Diagnosis of Kidney Cancer

    Diagnosis of kidney cancer typically involves several steps and may include the following:



    1. Medical History and Physical Examination: Your doctor will begin by discussing your medical history, including any symptoms you've noticed, your overall health, and any risk factors for kidney cancer, such as smoking or family history. During the physical exam, they'll feel your abdomen for any lumps or abnormalities that could indicate kidney tumours.


    2. Imaging Tests:

    • Ultrasound: This painless test uses sound waves to create images of your kidneys. It helps identify the size, shape, and location of any tumours or abnormalities.
    • CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of your kidneys and nearby structures. It helps determine the extent of the cancer and if it has spread to other organs or lymph nodes.
    • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of your kidneys. It can provide more information about the tumour's size and location, particularly useful for evaluating the involvement of nearby tissues.

    3. Biopsy: If imaging tests show a suspicious mass in your kidney, your doctor may recommend a biopsy to confirm if it's cancerous. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is removed using a needle guided by imaging techniques. The tissue sample is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist to determine if cancer cells are present.


    4. Blood and Urine Tests:

    • Blood Tests: These tests can evaluate kidney function and detect substances like creatinine and urea, which may be elevated in kidney cancer.
    • Urine Tests: Urinalysis can detect blood in the urine (hematuria), which is a common symptom of kidney cancer. It can also identify other substances that may indicate kidney problems or cancer.

    5. Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP): In this test, a contrast dye is injected into a vein, which travels through the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. X-rays are then taken to capture images of the urinary tract, helping to identify any abnormalities or blockages caused by tumours.


    6. Chest X-ray or CT Scan: To determine if kidney cancer has spread (metastasized) to the lungs or nearby organs, your doctor may recommend a chest X-ray or CT scan of the chest.


    7. Bone Scan: If there's concern that kidney cancer has spread to the bones, a bone scan may be performed. This test involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into a vein, which is then detected by a special camera to identify areas of increased bone activity that could indicate cancerous growths.


    These diagnostic tests play a crucial role in accurately diagnosing kidney cancer, assessing its stage, and planning the most effective treatment approach tailored to your specific condition. If you experience symptoms like blood in your urine, persistent back pain, or unexplained weight loss, it's important to discuss them with your doctor promptly for further evaluation. Early detection and diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.



    Once a diagnosis is confirmed, further tests may be done to determine the stage and extent of the cancer. Treatment options can then be discussed based on the stage of kidney cancer and other individual factors.


    Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer in the UAE

    Treating kidney cancer in the UAE involves several options depending on the stage and specific characteristics of the cancer. Here are some common treatment options available:


    1. Surgical Removal (Nephrectomy):

    a. Partial Nephrectomy: This involves removing only the part of the kidney affected by cancer, sparing the rest of the healthy kidney tissue. It is preferred when feasible, as it helps preserve kidney function.
    b. Radical Nephrectomy: This procedure involves removing the entire affected kidney, nearby adrenal gland, and surrounding tissues. It's used when the cancer is larger or involves structures that make partial removal impractical.

    2. Minimally Invasive Surgery:
    a. Laparoscopic Surgery: This technique uses small incisions and specialized instruments with a camera (laparoscope) to guide the surgeon. It's less invasive than traditional open surgery, resulting in quicker recovery times and reduced hospital stays.
    b. Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Similar to laparoscopic surgery, but with the assistance of robotic arms controlled by the surgeon. This allows for enhanced precision and dexterity, making it suitable for complex procedures while still offering the benefits of minimally invasive surgery.

    These minimally invasive techniques are particularly advantageous for smaller tumours or cases where preserving kidney function is crucial, as they minimize trauma to surrounding tissues and reduce recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.


    3. Targeted Therapy

    Targeted therapy focuses on blocking specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer cell growth and spread. In the UAE, common targeted therapies used for kidney cancer include:

    a. Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs): These drugs interfere with signals that promote tumour cell growth and blood vessel formation (angiogenesis). Examples include:

    • Sunitinib: Targets multiple receptor tyrosine kinases involved in tumour growth and angiogenesis.
    • Pazopanib: Inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR), platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFR), and c-KIT.
    • Cabozantinib: Targets MET, VEGFR2, and AXL receptors, affecting both tumor cell proliferation and angiogenesis.
    b. mTOR Inhibitors: These drugs block the mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, which regulates cell growth, proliferation, and survival:
    • Everolimus: Inhibits mTOR, thereby slowing cancer cell growth and proliferation.


    4. Immunotherapy

    Immunotherapy works by enhancing the body's immune response against cancer cells. In the UAE, immunotherapy options for kidney cancer include:

    Drugs target proteins that inhibit the immune system's ability to recognize and attack cancer cells:

    • Nivolumab: Targets PD-1 (programmed cell death protein 1) on T cells, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
    • Pembrolizumab: Also targets PD-1, similar to nivolumab, and is used in advanced kidney cancer.


    5. Radiation Therapy

    While less frequently used for kidney cancer compared to other treatments, radiation therapy may still play a role in certain cases in the UAE:

    a. Palliative Radiation Therapy: Provides relief from symptoms such as pain or bleeding caused by metastatic kidney cancer.
    b. Adjuvant Radiation Therapy: Occasionally used after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in the surgical area.
    c. Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT): Delivers highly focused radiation to the tumour with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue, often used for small kidney tumours or in cases where surgery is not feasible.

    6. Clinical Trials: Participation in clinical trials may offer access to new treatments or combinations of therapies being studied for kidney cancer.


    7. Palliative Care: For advanced cases, palliative care focuses on improving quality of life through pain management and symptom relief.


    In the UAE, hospitals like American Hospital Dubai, Mediclinic City Hospital Dubai, and others with comprehensive oncology departments offer these treatments. It's crucial for patients to consult with oncologists to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on their specific conditions and preferences.


    Top Hospitals in the UAE for Kidney Cancer


    1. Paolo Hospital, Bangkok

    Hospital Name: Paolo Hospital Bangkok
    Address: 670/1 Phahon Yothin Rd, Khwaeng Samsen Nai, Khet Phaya Thai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand

    About The Hospital:

    • Established: 1972
    • Accreditation: Accredited by Hospital Accreditation (HA); recognized for hospital standards by the Healthcare Accreditation Institute under the Ministry of Public Health
    • Specialities: Cardiovascular, neurology, orthopaedics, rheumatology, gastroenterology, liver disease, gynaecology, paediatrics, geriatrics
    • Medical Services: Provides comprehensive medical services from primary to tertiary care
    • Emphasis: Emphasizes patient safety and quality of care
    • Team: Includes specialists such as anesthesiologists, nurse anaesthetists, radiologists, pharmacists
    • Care Focus: Provides comprehensive treatment, diagnosis, medical intervention, and rehabilitation care
    • Nursing: Dedicated nursing team for both physical and emotional patient care
    • Support Services: Includes physical therapists and dietitians for personalized recovery plans

    Infrastructure:

    • Capacity: 260 beds
    • Services: 24x7 services
    • Facilities: ICU facilities, Operating theatres

    2. Praram 9 Hospital


    Established: Over 28 years ago
    JCI Certification: Since 2010

    About The Hospital:

    • Specialities: Specializes in the treatment of complicated ailments including kidney transplants, cardiac operations, and surgery on the brain and heart, among others
    • Accreditations: JCI certification; Kidney Disease and Transplant Institute accredited by JCI
    • Technological Advancements: Pioneered the use of laparoscopic surgery, 4D ultrasound, and 640-slice CT scans in Thailand
    • Kidney Transplants: Completed 958 kidney transplants, making it a leading private hospital in Thailand for kidney transplants
    • Focus on Care: Dedicated to providing top-notch medical care ensuring patient safety and satisfaction

    3. Thonburi Hospital


    • Established Year: 1977
    • Location: 120/194 Soi Wang Lang 13, Bangkok Noi District, Bangkok City 10700, Thailand

    About The Hospital:

    • Thonburi Hospital, a tertiary care facility, has been providing high-quality medical and surgical treatments since its establishment on May 10, 1977.
    • Located conveniently in the West side of Bangkok, it is part of a 24-hospital nationwide network, making it one of Thailand's most trusted private hospitals
    • Number Of Beds: 435
    • Operation Theatres: NA
    • No Of Surgeons: 9
    • Thonburi Hospital is committed to offering modern medical technology and exceptional healthcare services.

    Treatments Offered:

    Gastrointestinal and Liver Center, Orthopedics Center, Cardiac Center, Neuroscience Center, Women’s Health Center, Eyes Center, Oxygen Therapy Center, Pediatric Center, Critical Care Center, Cancer Center, Hemodialysis Center, Ear Nose Throat Center, Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiological Center, Dental Center etc.


    Success Rates of Kidney Cancer Treatment in the UAE

    Kidney cancer, especially when diagnosed early, has notably positive treatment outcomes. Research indicates that patients have a 76% survival rate five years after diagnosis. This survival rate improves significantly with early detection. Here's a breakdown by stage to highlight these statistics:


    • Stage 1: When the cancer is confined to the kidney, patients have a 93% survival rate.
    • Stage 2: If the cancer spreads to nearby tissues, the survival rate is still encouraging at 78%.

    The UAE is renowned for its modern medical facilities that offer access to cutting-edge treatments like surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. These advancements are instrumental in achieving favourable results for kidney cancer patients in the country.


    Cost of Kidney Cancer Treatment in the UAE

    The cost of kidney cancer treatment in the UAE can vary significantly based on several factors:


    • Type of Surgery: Procedures such as robotic partial nephrectomy (targeting only the tumour) generally cost less than radical nephrectomy (complete kidney removal).

  • Cancer Stage: Advanced stages may necessitate additional treatments like radiation or immunotherapy, contributing to higher overall expenses.

  • Hospital Fees: Costs can differ between private hospitals and public healthcare facilities.

  • Medications: The specific drugs prescribed and their duration of use will impact the total treatment expenses.

    • Overall, costs for kidney cancer treatment in the UAE can range widely. For instance, surgical procedures may range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of Dirhams, while targeted therapies and immunotherapies can cost tens of thousands of Dirhams per cycle, often requiring multiple cycles for effective treatment.


    How can HealthTrip assist with your treatment?

    If you're seeking  Kidney Cancer Treatment in the UAE, let HealthTrip be your compass. We support you throughout your medical journey with the following:

    • Access to top doctors in 38+ countries and the largest health travel platform.
    • Partnerships with 1500+ hospitals, including Fortis, Medanta, and more.
    • Treatments in neuro, cardiac care, transplants, aesthetics, and wellness.
    • Post-treatment care and assistance.
    • Teleconsultations with leading doctors at $1/minute.
    • Over 61K patients served.
    • Access Top treatments and packages, such as Angiograms and many more.
    • Gain insights from genuine patient experiences and testimonials.
    • Stay updated with our medical blog.
    • 24/7 unwavering support, from hospital formalities to travel arrangements or emergencies.


    Hear from our satisfied patients.

    In summary, the UAE stands out as a leading destination for kidney cancer treatment, offering cutting-edge technology, expert medical professionals, and personalized care that prioritizes patient well-being and recovery. Patients can trust in the advanced capabilities and compassionate approach of UAE hospitals to guide them through their treatment journey effectively.

    Healthtrip icon

    Wellness Treatments

    Give yourself the time to relax

    certified

    Lowest Prices Guaranteed!

    Treatments for Weight loss, Detox, Destress, Traditional Treatments, 3 day healthtrip and more

    95% Rated Great Experience and Relaxing

    ZULEKHA HOSPITALCanadian Specialist HospitalAl Zahra Hospital, DubaiBurjeel Medical City, Abu DhabiSaudi German Hospital Dubai, UAEKidney Cancer Treatment UAE Kidney Cancer Symptoms Kidney Cancer Diagnosis Kidney Cancer Treatment Options Surgery for Kidney Cancer
    Get in touch
    Please fill in your details, Our experts will get in touch with you

    FAQs

    Recovery varies based on treatment type and individual health, typically involving follow-up appointments, monitoring for recurrence, and supportive care to manage any side effects.