What does RCC stand for in the context of renal pathology?

In the context of renal pathology, RCC stands for renal cell carcinoma. It is the most common type of kidney cancer in adults, originating from the cells lining the renal tubules. Renal cell carcinoma is notable for its variety of presentations, including hematuria (blood in urine), flank pain, and a palpable mass, often discovered incidentally during imaging studies.

The significance of recognizing renal cell carcinoma lies in its pathological characteristics, risk factors, and treatment options, which include surgical resection and targeted therapies. Early detection is crucial for improving outcomes, as advanced stages of RCC can lead to metastasis and poor prognosis.

Understanding RCC is important for differential diagnoses in patients presenting with renal symptoms, as other potential conditions might not have the same implications for treatment and prognosis. The other choices represent terms that are less relevant in the specific context of renal pathology and do not correspond to a commonly recognized acronym within this field.