Stages, types and grades

The type tells you what type of cell it started in. The grade tells you how much the cancer cells look like normal cells. The stage of a cancer tells you how big it is and whether it has spread. They all help your doctor decide which treatment you need.

Types and grades

Renal cell cancer is the most common type of kidney cancer in adults. Find out more.

Number stages for kidney cancer

There are 4 number stages of 1 to 4.

TNM stages

TNM refers to tumour, node and metastasis. Find out more.

Last reviewed: 
09 Mar 2020
Next review due: 
09 Mar 2023
Coronavirus and cancer

We know it’s a worrying time for people with cancer, we have information to help.

Read our information about coronavirus and cancer