OBJECTIVE The goal of this study is the analysis of the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of this affection which is usually discovered at a delayed stage in our context. METHODS A retrospective study of 170 renal cancer, collected during a period of 15 years (1985-2000). Ninety-two men and 78 women were studied, their mean-age was 50 years (15-81 years). The diagnosis was relied on clinical, radiological and histological arguments. RESULTS Lumbar pain, hematuria and enormous mass were present in 85 cases (50%). The ultrasound and computed exams permitted the diagnosis and also evaluated the venous and locoregional extension. The treatment consisted on large nephrectomy practiced in 114 patients (67%), abstention in 56 cases (33%) due to the advanced stage of the tumor. The histological exam concludes to clear cell adenocarcinoma in 91.2% of cases. CONCLUSIONS The authors deplore the delayed diagnosis of renal cancer in our context which is responsible of a high rate of abstention (33%); and underline the interest of the early diagnosis for an adequate management.