Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when abnormal cells in the lining of the urinary bladder begin to grow uncontrollably. Most bladder cancers develop in the urothelial cells lining the bladder wall. Causes may include prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke, certain industrial chemicals, chronic inflammation of the bladder, and ageing. Early detection and treatment can improve prognosis and help preserve bladder function. Manipal Hospitals provides a tailored approach to cancer care.
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Request a CallbackBladder cancer symptoms include blood in the urine, frequent urination, pain during urination, and an urge to urinate even when the bladder is not full. Some patients may also experience recurrent urinary tract infections and pelvic discomfort.
Bladder cancer diagnosis may include urine tests to detect infection and urine cytology to identify abnormal cells. A cystoscopy allows visualisation of the bladder and biopsy of any suspicious lesions. If these tests suggest cancer, imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be performed. These studies help confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent and stage of cancer to plan treatment.
Bladder cancer treatment depends on the stage and grade of the tumour. Management may include transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT), intravesical therapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Partial or total cystectomy may be performed in selected patients depending on the stage of disease.
At Manipal Hospitals, patients diagnosed with bladder cancer receive a tailored treatment plan based on the stage, grade, and extent of tumour involvement. Early-stage bladder cancers are often treated with transurethral resection of the bladder tumour (TURBT), a minimally invasive procedure performed through the urethra to remove tumour tissue.
After tumour removal, some patients may receive intravesical therapy. In this treatment, drugs such as immunotherapy or chemotherapy are placed directly into the bladder to reduce the risk of recurrence.
In patients with invasive bladder cancer that has penetrated deeper layers of the bladder wall, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery may be recommended. In certain cases, either partial or complete cystectomy may be performed to control the spread of the disease.
Regular follow-up is essential, as bladder cancer has a tendency to recur. Patients usually undergo periodic examinations with cystoscopy, imaging studies, and urine tests to check for recurrence. With early detection, appropriate treatment, and regular monitoring, many patients can manage the disease effectively and maintain a better quality of life.
Several bladder cancer causes have been identified. The most significant risk factors include tobacco smoking, long-term exposure to industrial chemicals, chronic bladder irritation, certain medications, and increasing age.
Bladder cancer occurs more frequently in men than in women, partly due to higher exposure to risk factors such as tobacco smoking and occupational chemicals. In women, early symptoms may sometimes be mistaken for urinary tract infections, which can delay diagnosis.
Yes. If bladder cancer progresses, it may invade deeper layers of the bladder wall and spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can reduce the risk of progression.
Bladder cancer has a tendency to recur. Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer has a relatively high likelihood of recurrence. Patients require regular monitoring through cystoscopy and urine tests to detect recurrence early and manage it promptly.
Post-treatment follow-up typically involves routine cystoscopy examinations, urine cytology tests, and imaging studies, as advised by the doctor. These evaluations are important for detecting any recurrence of the tumour early and adjusting the treatment plan if needed.
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