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I have localised kidney cancer

Active surveillance for kidney cancer

Active surveillance means closely watching a small kidney tumour that is not causing symptoms.

Related topics for further reading

Living with kidney cancerOther resources on kidney cancer

Understanding the approach

This approach means not treating the tumour right away. Instead, your team checks it often with regular imaging scans (CT scans or MRIs) to see if it grows or changes over time.

This chapter contains general information about monitoring 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)

Other 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

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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Kidney cancerAll conditions
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