Possible treatments
Understanding this type of kidney cancer
Locally advanced kidney cancer usually means no distant spread. It often matches Stage 3 and some Stage 4 cases without distant metastases. It may include spread into nearby tissues, lymph nodes, blood vessels, or the adrenal gland.
Your doctor may order scans (CT or MRI) to see if the cancer affects areas near the kidney and to confirm that it has not spread to distant organs.
Sometimes, nearby lymph nodes are involved, but there is no distant spread.
The renal vein is a blood vessel that carries filtered blood from the kidney to the vena cava. Each kidney has a renal vein. It helps remove waste and balance fluids.
The vena cava is the major vein that collects blood from the kidneys back to the heart.
The adrenal glands are small glands on top of each kidney. They make hormones that help control stress, metabolism, blood pressure, and energy levels.
Lymph nodes are small lumps of tissue that have white blood cells which fight infections.
In some cases, the tumour may form a clot (called a tumour thrombus) in the renal vein or vena cava. This can be removed with specialised surgery. It is complex and usually done in specialised centres.
This chapter contains general information about locally-advanced 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)