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Kidney cancer

I have localised kidney cancer

If you have localised kidney cancer, there are several treatment options. This section explains what this means and what choices may be available to you. 

Possible treatments

Active surveillance for kidney cancerPartial nephrectomy for localised kidney cancerRadical nephrectomy for localised kidney cancerAblation therapy for kidney cancerStereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) for kidney cancer

Understanding this type of kidney cancer

When the tumour is only in the kidney and has not spread to other parts of the body, it is called localised kidney cancer. Doctors also call this Stage 1 or Stage 2 kidney cancer. 

In stage 1 kidney cancer, the tumour is 7 cm or smaller and only in the kidney.
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In stage 2 kidney cancer, the tumour is larger than 7 cm but still only in the kidney.
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This chapter contains general information about localised kidney cancer. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

Last updated: September 2025

Reviewed by: 

  • Ms. Claudia Ungarelli (Patient Office EPAG)
  • Dr. Gaëlle Margue (YAU Working Group on Renal Cell Carcinoma)

Where am I in my journey?

I have localised kidney cancerI have locally-advanced kidney cancerI have metastatic kidney cancerLiving with kidney cancer

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