Renal cancer, or kidney cancer, can spread to the bones. A 2018 article notes that the lungs are the most common place for kidney cancer to spread, with bone involvement being the second most common site.

When cancer spreads to the bones, it most commonly spreads to the spine. It can also spread to the hip bone, upper leg and arm bones, ribs, and skull.

Signs that kidney cancer has spread to the bones include:

  • bone pain, which is usually the first sign cancer has spread to the bones
  • fractures
  • spinal cord compression, which can cause:
    • back pain
    • leg weakness or difficulty moving the legs
    • numbness affecting the legs or stomach
  • urinary or fecal incontinence
  • difficulty passing urine
  • high levels of calcium in the blood

Doctors may order imaging tests to diagnose bone metastasis. A bone biopsy may also be necessary.

Treatment will involve a multidisciplinary approach and depend on various factors. A person can work with a doctor to determine the best treatment plan for them. A doctor may also prescribe medications to treat bone problems in those with bone metastasis. These include:

  • pamidronate (Aredia)
  • zoledronic acid (Zometa)
  • denosumab (Xgeva)

Kidney cancer can spread to the bones or other distant parts of the body during the later or advanced stages of the disease. The 5-year relative survival rate for kidney cancer that has spread to distant parts of the body is 18%.

Those with advanced kidney cancer may benefit from seeking support. A person can find support from:

  • family and friends
  • a counselor
  • support groups
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