According to ESPN, the Indiana Pacers announced on Saturday that 27-year-old player Caris LeVert will be out indefinitely after an MRI revealed a small mass on his left kidney.The news sparked widespread discussion among fans. Beyond concerns for LeVert's career, there was significant worry about the kidney mass—this "small burden" affecting his health. Kidney masses may sound unfamiliar. To shed light on this, we interviewed Liu Guangxiang, Associate Chief Physician of the Urology Department at Nanjing Gulou Hospital, who unraveled the mysteries of the kidneys.
Most cases occur in individuals over 40, affecting both men and women
Dr. Liu explained that the kidneys are urinary organs primarily responsible for repeatedly filtering blood to remove excess fluids, toxins, creatinine, and urea through the urinary tract. They also metabolize and excrete many medications.
So-called kidney masses, or renal tumors, are categorized as benign or malignant. While renal tumors have a relatively low overall incidence, they typically occur after age 40 with similar prevalence in both men and women.
Eighty percent of kidney tumors can be detected early.
So how can we confirm our kidney health and check for any unusual "growths"? Liu Guangxiang explains that malignant kidney tumors, or renal cell carcinoma, often present with "strong warning signs." These include abdominal masses, pain, and hematuria—collectively known as the triad of renal cell carcinoma. When these symptoms appear, immediate professional examination at a reputable hospital is essential.
"However, currently about 80% of kidney tumors are detected in their early stages without noticeable symptoms." It is reported that with improved living standards, heightened health awareness, and advanced diagnostic equipment, many kidney tumors are now discovered incidentally during routine check-ups or examinations for other issues. "Numerous patients first notice a 'small mass' on their kidneys during routine ultrasound scans, which are then confirmed as kidney tumors via CT scans."Therefore, Liu Guangxiang advises that individuals over 40 should include a kidney ultrasound in their annual routine physical examinations.
Environmental Pollution, Long-Term Smoking, and Obesity as Potential Contributors
Deputy Chief Physician Liu Guangxiang explains that there is no single definitive cause for tumors; they result from multiple factors. "Environmental pollution, long-term smoking, and obesity are relatively associated with their development, though not in a linear manner."
What should one do if a kidney mass is detected? Liu recommends starting with a CT scan, which can determine whether 80% of masses are benign or malignant. Benign kidney masses include cysts and hamartomas. "If deemed necessary by the doctor, treatment generally yields good outcomes." For malignant kidney tumors, Liu emphasizes that if the tumor is small and technically feasible, kidney-sparing surgery is the preferred approach."In the past, tumors were always removed. But humans only have two kidneys—removing one increases the burden on the remaining kidney. If a tumor develops in the other kidney later, the risk of kidney failure significantly rises."