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Bladder Cancer Treatment

Bladder Cancer

Bladder Cancer Treatment

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, the organ responsible for holding urine. It mostly affects the urothelial cells that line the inside of the bladder. Haematuria, or blood in the urine, is the main sign of bladder cancer and can cause the urine to turn pink, red, or brown. Additional symptoms include pelvic or lower back discomfort, as well as frequent and painful urination. Smoking, exposure to certain industrial toxins, persistent inflammation of the bladder, and a family history of the illness are risk factors for bladder cancer. 

Urine tests, cystoscopy (an examination of the bladder with a camera), and imaging tests are usually used in the diagnosis process. Depending on the stage and grade of the cancer, several treatment options are available, such as Immunotherapy, Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy, and Surgery. The survival percentage of bladder cancer in its early stages is good, particularly if it is identified and treated quickly. Monitoring for recurrence and managing any long-term repercussions of the disease and its treatment depends heavily on routine follow-up. If you are looking for Bladder cancer treatment in Mukundapur, reach out to Manipal Hospitals.

 

FAQ's

The growth of uncontrolled tumours in the bladder is the cause of bladder cancer. The urothelial cells that line the bladder are where it mostly begins. If left untreated, these aberrant cells have the potential to spread to other parts of the body by invading deeper layers of the bladder.
 

The most typical early indicator of bladder cancer is haematuria or blood in the urine. It can have a brown, pink, or red colour. Pelvic or back pain, pain or burning when urinating, and frequent urination, are other symptoms. It is crucial to see a physician if you have these symptoms.
 

Risk factors for bladder cancer include age (most frequent in those over 55), smoking, exposure to certain industrial toxins, and recurrent bladder infections. Bladder cancer is more common in males than in females, and the risk is further increased by a family history of the illness. 
 

Diagnosis is frequently initiated with a urinalysis to detect blood. In the event of blood, a cystoscopy, during which a camera is inserted into the bladder to search for tumours, is typically carried out. A biopsy is performed to confirm malignancy if tumours are discovered. MRIs and CT scans are examples of imaging tests that may be employed. 

Stages 0 (non-invasive) to Stage IV (spread to other organs) are the different stages of bladder cancer. The extent of the cancer's invasion of the bladder wall and whether it has progressed to nearby lymph nodes or other locations helps in staging. Treatment choices are guided depending on the cancer stage. 

The cancer's grade and stage will determine how it is treated. Surgical excision of the tumour or bladder, Intravesical Treatment (drugs injected directly into the bladder), Immunotherapy, Chemotherapy, and Radiation Therapy are among the available options. Frequently, a mix of therapies is employed.
 

Risk can be minimised by abstaining from smoking, limiting exposure to dangerous chemicals, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables. Getting regular checkups can help identify problems early.
 

The patient's general health and the cancer's stage and grade at diagnosis determine the prognosis. The prognosis for bladder cancer in its early stages is favourable, particularly with quick treatment. Although the survival rate is worse in the late stages, emerging therapies are improving results. 
 

To keep an eye out for recurrence, routine follow-up treatment is essential. This usually entails physical examinations, imaging studies, urine testing, and periodic cystoscopies. The initial stage of the malignancy and the type of treatment administered determine how often follow-ups are scheduled.
 

Bladder cancer types include:

  • Urothelial carcinoma (transitional cell carcinoma): The most prevalent type.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma: Linked to chronic irritation or infection.
  • Adenocarcinoma: A rare type starting in glandular cells.
  • Small cell carcinoma: Very rare and aggressive.
  • Sarcomatoid carcinoma: Contains elements of both carcinoma and sarcoma.

Genetic testing can detect hereditary mutations that raise the risk of bladder cancer. In order to direct targeted therapy, it can also identify certain genetic alterations in cancer cells. For those who have a family history of cancer or who exhibit certain cancer symptoms, genetic testing is very helpful. 
 

Bladder cancer symptoms (frequency and pain), weariness, and psychological stress can all affect day-to-day functioning. Maintaining quality of life requires managing these effects with medical assistance, counselling, and lifestyle modifications.
 

Novel biomarkers for early diagnosis, tailored medicines for certain genetic alterations, and immunotherapies that strengthen the immune system to combat cancer are examples of advancements. To enhance results, novel medications and therapy regimens are being tested in ongoing clinical studies.
 

Helpful lifestyle changes include:

  • Quitting smoking, as well as reducing or eliminating alcohol and tobacco products

  • Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet

  • Staying hydrated

  • Regular exercise

  • Stress management

  • Follow-up care

Common side effects of treatment may include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, bladder irritation, incontinence, hair loss from chemotherapy, and sexual dysfunction.
 

Immunotherapy strengthens the body's defences against cancer. It involves medications such as checkpoint inhibitors, which enhance the immune system's capacity to identify and combat cancer cells. When bladder cancer progresses, this therapy is frequently employed.

Using a catheter, Intravesical Therapy involves injecting medication straight into the bladder. It is used to stop bladder cancer in its early stages from coming back. Chemotherapy and Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccines are common drugs used in Intravesical Therapy.

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