What is a common clinical manifestation associated with renal cell carcinoma?

The presence of blood in the urine, known as hematuria, is a well-documented clinical manifestation of renal cell carcinoma. This occurs because the tumor can cause irritation and damage to the blood vessels within the kidney, leading to bleeding that is then excreted in the urine. Hematuria may be visible to the naked eye as red or cola-colored urine, or it may only be detectable through urinalysis.

In contrast, the other options do not directly correlate with the typical presentations of renal cell carcinoma. Excess ankle swelling may indicate other conditions, such as heart failure or venous issues, but is not a hallmark of renal cell carcinoma. Periorbital edema can arise from a variety of causes, including allergies or kidney dysfunction, but is not specifically associated with this type of cancer. Weight gain can occur for numerous reasons, including lifestyle factors and other medical conditions, making it an unreliable indicator specific to renal cell carcinoma.

In summary, hematuria stands out as a significant clinical feature linked to renal cell carcinoma, helping in its early identification and diagnosis.