Clear Cell RCC Leads Kidney Cancer Cases in South India: Apollo Study

Renal cell carcinoma accounts for nearly 2% of all cancers worldwide, with its incidence and mortality continuing to rise across different populations. However, data from India regarding its clinical presentation and pathological features remain limited. To bridge this gap, the researchers carried out a retrospective observational analysis of RCC cases diagnosed over one year, from January to December 2022, at their centre. The study included patients who underwent either radical or partial nephrectomy and had a confirmed diagnosis of RCC, while excluding non-neoplastic kidney conditions and other malignancies.    

Commenting on the findings, Dr. Githa Rachel Oommen noted, as told to Medical Dialogues, that "the study was undertaken to understand better whether RCC patterns in the Indian population align with global data, given the limited domestic evidence". She stated that, "the observed trends—including male predominance, clear cell histology, and diagnosis in the early 50s—are consistent with both Indian and international studies, although Western populations often present at a slightly older age." 

She further emphasized the clinical implications of the findings, pointing out that the presence of lymphovascular invasion and nodal involvement signals more aggressive disease biology. Such patients, she suggested, may benefit from closer surveillance and consideration of systemic therapies rather than routine follow-up alone.

Dr. Oommen also highlighted the need for improved awareness and early detection strategies in India. She noted that RCC is frequently diagnosed incidentally, often when tumours have already reached moderate sizes. Strengthening screening practices for high-risk individuals, along with detailed pathological reporting, could play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes.

Overall, the study provides important baseline data on RCC in a South Indian tertiary care setting and reinforces the need for broader, multicentric research to understand regional variations better and guide clinical practice.

Reference: Oommen, G. R., & Krishnamurthy, S. (2026). Comparison of Demographic and Histomorphologic Features of Renal Cell Carcinoma: One-year Experience in a Quaternary Care Centre in South India. Apollo Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1177/09760016251332684