Stage I: The tumor is limited to your kidney and is no more than seven centimeters (cm) in diameter. Neither lymph nodes nor other tissue have been affected. Lymph nodes are tiny "filters" that hold on to cells that fight infections while capturing pathogens and cancerous cells.
Stage II: The tumor is still only in your kidney, but it is more than 7 cm broad. Neither lymph nodes nor other tissue have been affected.
Stage III: The tumor has progressed to the surrounding tissue of your kidney, adjacent lymph nodes, and your major blood arteries, the renal vein and inferior vena cava.
Stage IV: The tumor has progressed to distant lymph nodes or other organs, as well as the adrenal gland, the little gland that sits atop your kidney.