Management Team

Bladder cancer

Overview

This is a type of cancer that occurs when the cells in the bladder begin to grow uncontrollably. It is a relatively rare form of cancer with a variety of treatment options.

The symptoms of bladder cancer may include: 

  • Blood in the urine
  • Abnormal urination, including frequent urination, bladder urgency, and poor flow

Bladder cancer can be diagnosed using the following techniques:

  • Urine cytology: A urine test that checks for the presence of cancerous cells
  • CT urogram: A CT scan of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder
  • Ultrasound KUB: A diagnostic ultrasound to assess the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.

Bladder cancer is treatable. The following options exist for patients with bladder cancer:

  • Trans-urethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT): A surgical procedure used to remove the cancerous part of the bladder through the urethra
  • En bloc laser enucleation of bladder tumour: This is a minimally invasive technique in which the cancerous tumour is excised using lasers
  • Radical cystectomy: This is a surgical procedure to remove the entire bladder. It also usually includes the removal of adjacent organs such as the prostate and seminal vesicles, or the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and/or parts of the vagina
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