Bladder Cancer: Common to Uncommon Type

Bladder cancer is a common type of cancer that originates in the tissues of the urinary bladder, a hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine.

- ■DR. RAJKUMAR SINGH

Most bladder cancers begin in the urothelium-the inner lining of the bladder. This lining comes into contact with urine and can be damaged by harmful substances excreted in it. Its overview include:

a. Types of bladder cancer:

Urothelial carcinoma (Transitional cell carcinoma) most common (~90% of cases), squamous cell carcinoma - linked to chronic irritation (e.g., infections, catheters), and adenocarcinoma very rare; originates in mucus-secreting glands.

b. Causes and Risk Factors:

Smoking Major risk factor; smokers are 3x more likely to develop it. Exposure to chemicals - Especially in dye, rubber, leather, paint, and textile industries. Radiation therapy Previous radiation to the pelvis.Chronic bladder irritation - Infections, long-term catheter use, bladder stones. Certain medications Such as cyclophosphamide and arsenic in drinking water. Age & Gender - More common in people over 55; men are more at risk. Family history or genetic mutations - Though not very common.

c. Symptoms of Bladder Cancer:

Early symptoms: Hematuria Blood in urine (most common symptom); may be visible or microscopic, frequent urination, urgency to urinate, and pain or burning while urinating. Advanced symptoms: Pelvie or back pain, weight loss, swelling in the legs, and bone pain (if cancer has spread).

d. Diagnosis:

Urinalysis To detect blood or cancer cells. Cystoscopy Visual inspection of bladder with a scope. Biopsy Tissue sample taken during cystoscopy. Imaging CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to see the extent of spread.

e. Stages of Bladder Cancer:

Non-muscle-invasive Limited to the inner layers; less aggressive Muscle-invasive Deeper into bladder muscle; more serious. Metastatic - Spread to distant organs.

f. Treatment Options: