What are the main types of kidney cancer?

The main types of kidney cancer are renal cell cancer, transitional cell cancer, and Wilms tumor. Kidney cancer can develop in both adults and children.

Renal cell cancer is the most common type and forms in the tubules of the kidney, the tiny tubes that filter the blood and make urine. Transitional cell cancer begins in the cells lining the renal pelvis and ureter. Wilms tumor is a kidney cancer that occurs in children.

Your healthcare team can explain more about the type of kidney cancer in your situation and what it means for your care.