1. Direct invasion: Certain cancers, such as renal cell carcinoma, arise directly from the kidney tissue. These cancers can disrupt normal kidney function. 2. Metastasis: Cancers originating from other parts of the body can spread (metastasize) to the kidneys, causing secondary tumors. 3. Obstruction: Tumors in or near the urinary tract can block urine flow, leading to kidney damage. 4. Paraneoplastic syndromes: Some cancers release substances that affect kidney function, leading to conditions like nephrotic syndrome.