The wall of the bladder is lined with cells called transitional cells and
squamous cells. More than 90% of bladder cancers begin in the transitional
cells. This type of bladder cancer is called transitional cell carcinoma.
About 8 % of bladder cancer patients have squamous cell carcinomas. Cancer
that is only in cells in the lining of the bladder is called superficial
bladder cancer. Cancer that begins as a superficial tumor may grow through
the lining and into the muscular wall of the bladder. This is known as
invasive cancer. Invasive cancer may extend through the bladder wall.
Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer
The cause of bladder cancer is unknown, although there are many risk factors
that increase a person’s chance of developing the disease. Some
of these risk factors are age, tobacco usage, occupation, infections,
previous treatment with cytoxan or arsenic, race, being a man, family
history, and personal history of bladder cancer.
Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
Some of the common symptoms of bladder cancer can include: blood in urine,
pain during urination, frequent urination, or feeling the need to urinate
without results. People with these symptoms may see their family doctor
or a urologist, who specializes in diseases of the urinary system.
Diagnosis & Testing
Upon a doctor visit with a urologist the patient may have one or more of
the following tests:
Physical exam
Urine tests
Intravenous pyelogram
Cystoscopy
During a cystoscopy the doctor may remove sample tissue, called a biopsy
to be sent to a pathologist for diagnosis. Staging is sometimes done at
the time of diagnosis, or sometimes additional tests such as, CT scan,
MRI, sonogram, intravenous pyelogram, bone scan, or chest x-ray may need
to be done. Sometimes staging is not done till surgery. Once staging is
complete the doctor may refer you to doctor who specializes in treating cancer.
Treatment Options
Treatment generally begins within a few weeks after diagnosis. Treatment
may consist of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or biological
therapy. A treatment plan that is best for you will be decided upon by
you and your healthcare team.
Comprehensive Bladder Cancer Care
At Big Horn Basin Regional Cancer Center, our oncology team is dedicated
to providing advanced, personalized treatment for every patient. From
diagnosis through recovery, we collaborate closely with your urologist
and care team to determine the most effective treatment plan for your
stage and type of bladder cancer.
Whether your care involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or
a combination of treatments, you can trust our specialists to guide you
with expertise and compassion every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about bladder cancer treatment options in Cody, WY,
or to schedule a consultation.
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