I have been diagnosed with a 5.5cm Clear Cell Renal Tumour (T1bN0M0) of my right kidney. From a DMSA scan, both kidneys are functioning normally.
Because of my age (active 86) the Consultant does not want me to delay too long for my decision whether or not to undertake Nephrectomy (it is too large for Partial Nephrectomy). I’ve been told I have an “average” chance of getting through the operation and the likelihood that I may never fully recover. My added problem is that, for 3 years now, I have been treated for Multiple Myeloma with the chemo drug Lenalidomide along with Dexamethasone and the blood thinner Rivaroxaban, all currently low dosages. The Consultant cannot say if I did have the operation, that the remaining kidney could cope with this toxic combination on its own.
So I’m asking if anyone of roughly similar age how they got on with a kidney removal and/or have had the added complication of treatment for cancer with just a single functioning kidney; or did nothing and let nature take its course? Thanks for any input.
Hi JBsquared
I’m Anne, one of the Community Champions here on the Online Community and, although I'm not a member of this group, I noticed that your post hadn't had any replies yet. Responding to you will 'bump' it back to the top of the discussion list again.
Wishing you all the best with whatever you decide to do.
Hi, JBsquared, my husband had a radical nephrectomy in 2021. His cancer then spread to his bladder which was removed in 2023 & he was fitted with a ureterostomy (similar to a stoma) from his remaining kidney. His kidney function was fine, but then gradually declined. He now has metastases in his lungs, has had chemotherapy & is now having immunotherapy. He also gets frequent kidney infections which need to be treated with antibiotics. So quite a strain on his kidney. However, although his kidney function is poor, it is now fairly stable. The nephrologist is involved with medication decisions & his chemotherapy, immunotherapy & antibiotic doses are adjusted to take account of his kidney function. He drinks a lot of water & follows a “kidney- friendly” diet, plus has daily exercise. So he’s doing okay with one kidney, though he does get quite tired & needs to rest more, & there is dialysis as a reserve option, though so far that’s not been necessary (we hope it won’t become necessary because, although it’s a life-saver, he already has quite a lot of hospital visits!) He is 77 years old. Wishing you well.
I had my right kidney removed 8 years ago as it contained a 6cm tumour I had no spread or treatment but has recently metastasised to my lungs I am on Suninitib tablets which are working great, kidney function is ok as well according to my 6 weekly blood tests, blood pressure high though despite 4 different types of meds
Many thanks for your information - I mistakenly thought that once the kidney was removed all would be well, not realizing it can metastasized into other parts of the body years later. I will have to view my options.
Thanks for the details of how your husband reacted to his radical nephrectomy, I think its amazing how he is coping. As I mentioned in my reply to Removalizee, I was unaware how problems could metastasized later after nephrectomy. I see he was about 72 when he had the op, I am currently 86 which is probably why my consultant says time is not with me. Am awaiting the outcome of a CT scan 4 days ago which will provide an update as to how the tumour is behaving. Even if I survive the operation relatively unscathed, I am not sure if I could face the potential illnesses arising from metastasis. It is such a difficult decision, isn't it.
My mum has recently been diagnosed with kidney cancer and she is 85 years old. They said that she is to frail to operate so having radiotherapy. It is such a trigger because my husband died of kidney cancer and he was just 53 years old. Sadly he was never diagnose and died suddenly.. only found out about the cancer after a post mortem. Good luck in your journey x
Your reply has thrown up a point that, although my consultant says I am fit enough to undergo surgery, he never mentioned anything about radiotherapy being an option - so that needs chasing. How is your mother coping with the radiotherapy and so sorry that kidney cancer has so impacted your family.
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007