Conditions | Bladder Cancer
Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer begins in the cells lining the bladder, the balloon-like organ that stores urine. It is one of the more common urologic cancers, and most cases are found early, when treatment is most effective. A prompt diagnosis makes a real difference in outcomes, so any warning sign deserves a timely evaluation.
If you have noticed blood in your urine or other changes in urination, contact us or request an appointment right away.
What Is Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer develops when cells in the bladder lining grow abnormally. Most cases start in the innermost layer and are found before they spread into the muscle wall of the bladder, which is why paying attention to early symptoms matters.Signs and Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
The most common sign of bladder cancer is blood in the urine, which can appear red, pink or rust colored and is often painless. Because it does not usually hurt, it can be easy to dismiss, but any visible blood in the urine should be evaluated promptly. Other symptoms include:- Needing to urinate more often than usual
- Pain or burning during urination
- A feeling of urgency without much urine actually passing
- Lower back pain on one side in more advanced cases
How Bladder Cancer Is Diagnosed
We use a combination of tests to confirm a diagnosis and determine how far the cancer has progressed:Urine Test
Checks the urine for blood and abnormal cells that can indicate cancer.Cystoscopy
A thin, flexible camera is passed through the urethra to directly view the inside of the bladder. If a growth is found, a biopsy is taken during the same procedure to confirm the diagnosis.Imaging Tests
CT scans or MRI help evaluate the extent of the disease and check whether cancer has spread beyond the bladder.Bladder Cancer Treatment Options
Your treatment plan depends on whether the cancer is confined to the bladder lining or has grown into the muscle wall. We review your specific case in detail so you understand every option available to you.Treatment for Early Stage (Non Muscle Invasive) Bladder Cancer
- Transurethral Surgery: the tumor is removed from inside the bladder using a tool passed through the urethra, without any external incision.
- Intravesical Therapy: liquid medication, including chemotherapy or immunotherapy agents such as BCG, is placed directly into the bladder to kill remaining cancer cells and reduce the chance of recurrence.
Treatment for Advanced (Muscle Invasive) Bladder Cancer
- Surgery: may include partial or complete removal of the bladder (cystectomy), with reconstruction of a new way to store and pass urine when the full bladder is removed.
- Chemotherapy: body wide medication used to kill cancer cells, often given before or after surgery.
- Radiation Therapy: high energy rays targeted at the tumor to destroy cancer cells, sometimes combined with chemotherapy.
- Immunotherapy: medication that helps your own immune system recognize and fight cancer cells.