Bladder Cancer

Understanding Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer is a prevalent form of cancer originating in the cells of the bladder. The bladder, a muscular hollow organ located in the lower abdomen, is responsible for storing urine.

Types of Cells Involved

  • Bladder cancer predominantly originates in the urothelial cells lining the interior of the bladder. These urothelial cells are also present in the kidneys and the connecting tubes (ureters) between the kidneys and the bladder. While urothelial cancer can develop in the kidneys and ureters, it is most commonly observed in the bladder.

Diagnosis and Early Detection

  • Most cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed at an early stage, which greatly enhances the chances of successful treatment. However, even in early-stage cases, there is a risk of recurrence. Therefore, individuals with bladder cancer typically undergo ongoing follow-up tests for several years after treatment to monitor for potential recurrence.

Symptoms
Bladder cancer may manifest with the following signs and symptoms:

  • Hematuria (blood in urine), which can result in urine appearing bright red or resembling cola; sometimes, blood may only be detected through lab tests
  • Frequent urination
  • Painful urination
  • Back pain

When to Seek Medical Attention

  • If you notice discolored urine and suspect the presence of blood, or if you experience any other concerning signs or symptom it is advisable to schedule an appointment with one of our Urological providers for evaluation.

 

 

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