Bladder cancer is a disease in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the bladder, the hollow, muscular organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine. It is the fourth most common cancer in men and less common in women. Bladder cancer most often begins in the cells that line the inside of the bladder (urothelial cells), though it can develop in other cell types. Early detection and treatment are crucial, as bladder cancer has a high recurrence rate, requiring ongoing surveillance after initial treatment.
Laboratory tests to examine urine for blood, cancer cells, and other signs of disease. Cytology involves examining cells from the urine under a microscope.
A procedure where a thin, lighted tube (cystoscope) is inserted through the urethra into the bladder to examine the bladder lining for abnormalities. If suspicious areas are seen, tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken for examination.
CT urogram, MRI, ultrasound, or other imaging studies may be used to visualize the bladder and surrounding structures, detect tumors, and determine if cancer has spread beyond the bladder.
A surgical procedure that serves both diagnostic and treatment purposes. It removes the tumor and surrounding tissue for pathological examination to determine the type and stage of cancer.
Specialized tests that look for specific substances in the urine that may indicate bladder cancer, such as NMP22, BTA, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).
A surgical procedure that removes cancerous tissue from the bladder using instruments inserted through the urethra. This is often the first treatment for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer and may be followed by intravesical therapy.
Medication is placed directly into the bladder through a catheter. Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy or chemotherapy drugs may be used to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence or progression after TURBT.
Surgical removal of the entire bladder and possibly surrounding tissues and organs. In men, this typically includes the prostate and seminal vesicles; in women, it may include the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and part of the vagina. A urinary diversion procedure is performed to create a new way for urine to leave the body.
Drugs that kill cancer cells may be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or as the primary treatment for advanced or metastatic bladder cancer. It may be given intravenously or directly into the bladder (intravesical).
Drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins from the bladder and may reduce irritation. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily, unless contraindicated by other medical conditions.
Some patients find relief by avoiding potential bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, artificial sweeteners, and acidic foods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help support overall health during treatment.
Quitting smoking is crucial as it is a major risk factor for bladder cancer development and recurrence. Seek professional help if needed to quit successfully.
Kegel exercises can help strengthen pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder control, which may be affected by bladder cancer or its treatments.
Practices such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or guided imagery can help manage stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A minimally invasive procedure performed through the urethra using a resectoscope to remove cancerous tissue from the bladder lining. It's used for diagnosis, staging, and treatment of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. The procedure can often be done on an outpatient basis, with a recovery period of a few days to weeks.
Complete removal of the bladder and nearby tissues, such as lymph nodes and part of the urethra. In men, the prostate and seminal vesicles are typically removed; in women, the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and part of the vagina may be removed. This is followed by urinary diversion to create a new way for urine to exit the body.
Removal of only a portion of the bladder, preserving bladder function. This is an option only for select patients with single tumors in certain locations that have not spread deeply. The remaining bladder is reconnected, allowing for normal urination.
After bladder removal, several options exist for diverting urine flow: ileal conduit (using a piece of intestine to create a tube for urine to exit through a stoma), continent urinary reservoir (an internal pouch made from intestinal tissue that requires catheterization), or neobladder (creating a new bladder from intestinal tissue that allows near-normal urination).
Advanced minimally invasive techniques using robotic systems for precise surgical control. This approach may be used for radical cystectomy and urinary diversion, potentially resulting in less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
If you're experiencing symptoms of bladder cancer, our expert team is here to help you find the right treatment approach for your specific needs.