Renal cell carcinoma in Enugu, Nigeria

Over a period of ten years (July 1988 to June 1998) all the patients seen at two health institutions in Enugu metropolis, with histologically diagnosed renal cell carcinoma, were studied to elucidate the pattern of presentation, management and response to treatment. Seventy four (74) such patients were seen during the study period. Fifty two (70.3%) were males while 22 (29.7%) were females. The ages of the patients ranged between 17 years and 72 years with a mean of 44 years. The commonest features at presentation were weight loss (100%) raised ESR (94.6%), haematuria (86.5%), anaemia (66.2%) and upper quadrant mass (64.9%). No bilateral case was encountered. Thirty two patients (43.2%) presented with the clinical triad of haematuria, loin pain and renal mass. Seven patients (9.5%) were HIV positive. Fifty nine patients (79.7%) presented with stages 3 and 4 disease and the outcome was poor. Those that presented with stages 1 and 2 tumour had good prognosis. Early diagnosis of the tumour is important in order to give the patients a high chance of survival.