Which inherited genetic mutations raise the risk of kidney cancer?
There are a growing number of genes thought to be associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer. Some of the most common genetic conditions that increase the risk of kidney cancer are described below. Most conditions are associated with a specific type of kidney cancer. Identifying a specific genetic syndrome in a family can help individuals and their doctors develop an appropriate cancer screening plan and, in some cases, help to determine the best treatment. Some genetic conditions also increase a person’s risk for noncancer-related health problems for which screening and early detection may be beneficial. Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome (VHL). People with VHL have an increased risk of developing several types of tumors. Most of these tumors are benign (noncancerous). However, people with VHL have about a 40% risk of developing kidney cancer. The specific type of kidney cancer associated with VHL is called clear cell kidney cancer. Other parts of the body where tumors can develop inc
