The classic triad of symptoms for renal cell carcinoma includes which combination?

• A. Fever, Night Sweats, Weight Loss
• B. Hematuria, Flank/Abdominal Pain, Palpable Mass
• C. Urinary Frequency, Dysuria, Hematuria
• D. Hypertension, Edema, Proteinuria

Answer: (B)

Renal cell carcinoma classically presents with a triad of symptoms: hematuria, flank or abdominal pain, and a palpable mass. Hematuria arises from the tumor bleeding into the urinary tract, while the pain reflects tumor growth and irritation of the renal capsule. A mass may be felt on examination as the tumor enlarges. It’s important to note that this triad isn’t always present; many cases are found incidentally or present with other signs. The other options describe non-classic or non-specific findings: constitutional symptoms like fever, night sweats, and weight loss can occur but aren’t the defining triad; urinary symptoms such as frequency and dysuria point more toward lower urinary tract issues; and hypertension, edema, and proteinuria can occur but don’t constitute the classic triad. The combination described here—hematuria, flank/abdominal pain, and a palpable mass—is the best representation of the classic triad.