KIDNEY

What is MUSIC KIDNEY?

MUSIC-KIDNEY (Kidney mass: Identifying and Defining Necessary Evaluation and therapy) is a quality improvement initiative focused on improving care for localized renal mass patients throughout the state of Michigan.

The kidneys are vital organs of the body and are about the size of a fist. They are important in removing water, salt, and waste, regulating blood pressure, and stimulating the production 

of red blood cells. Masses (or growths, lesions, tumors) that form on the kidneys can be cancer or not cancer (benign). Benign tumors will not spread to other parts of the body, while cancerous tumors can do this.

For masses found to be cancer, there are several features that determine the amount of risk that is present.

The type of treatment recommended to each patient is based on the kidney mass size and stage and the patient’s overall health and condition. Options include:

• Surgery – to remove the mass along with a part or all the kidney
• Surveillance – to closely monitor the kidney mass without treatment unless the risk of the cancer increases
• Ablation or radiation therapy – to treat the cancer cells without removing any part of the kidney

The choice of treatment for a kidney mass depends on factors related to the size and stage of the tumor, as well as your preferences related to the benefits and side effects of treatment.

Talk to your doctor and your loved ones as you consider what treatment option is best for you.