Bladder is that part of the human body where urine produced in kidneys is stored until it is passed out through urination. Common type bladder cancer is known as transitional cancer. In this cancer the cancerous cells start growing in the inner layer of the bladder. This type of cancer starts usually after the age of 60. If bladder cancer is diagnosed in its earlier days there are better chances of successful treatments.
Causes for bladder cancer
The real cause for formation of bladder cancer is not known. It has been noticed that the incidence of bladder cancer is considerably higher in smokers. It is believed that certain chemicals that enter the body and DNA changes taking place in the cells play a vital role in the formation of bladder cancer.
Symptoms of bladder cancer
Passing of blood in urine without any pain is the common symptom of bladder cancer. Frequent urination, urge for urination is also considered as symptoms of bladder cancer. These symptoms are shown in urinary tract infections also. So always consult Urologist if blood is found in your urine.
Diagnosis of bladder cancer
Your Urologist will study your medical history and conduct a physical examination. Urine test will be conducted to find out the presence of blood and abnormal cells in it. An ultrasound of abdomen will be done followed by a cystoscopy. Cystoscopy is examining inside of the bladder by means of a small scope passed through urine passage.
Treatment options
If any tumour is identified on cystoscopy . Then we will do a CT Scan/ MRI Scan and a Bone Scan to identified whether the tumour is already spread or not.
Surgical procedures
Transuretheral resection of bladder is a surgical procedure which is commonly used for removing cancerous bladder. Radical cystectomy is another surgical procedure in which whole bladder is usually removed. Digital rectal examination, urine cytology, urine analysis, blood chemistry studies, complete blood count, CT scan, ureteroscopy etcare some other test which may be conducted considering the requirements of each case. If the tumour is not spread we will remove the tumour by means of an endoscope passed into bladder via urine passage. In late stages we might late to tomour bladder and create a new bladder. If the tumour is spread beyond bladder to bones and lungs then we can treat only by chemotherapy/ Radiotherapy.
