Comprehensive Bladder Cancer Treatment in Bangalore

Overview

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, the organ responsible for storing urine. It is one of the most common cancers, particularly affecting older adults. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and survival rates. In this blog, we will explore what bladder cancer is, its symptoms, causes, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.

What is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer typically starts in the urothelial cells that line the inside of the bladder. These cells also line other parts of the urinary tract, which means cancer can occur in the kidneys, ureters, and urethra, but the bladder is the most common site. There are different types of bladder cancer, including:

• Urothelial Carcinoma (Transitional Cell Carcinoma): The most common type, accounting for about 90% of bladder cancers.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Linked to chronic irritation and inflammation of the bladder.
• Adenocarcinoma: A rare type that begins in mucus-secreting glands.

Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

The symptoms of bladder cancer can vary but commonly include:

• Blood in Urine (Hematuria): This is the most common symptom and may cause the urine to appear red, pink, or cola-colored.
• Frequent Urination: An increased need to urinate, often accompanied by discomfort.
• Painful Urination (Dysuria): A burning sensation or pain during urination.
• Pelvic Pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic area.
• Back Pain: Pain in the lower back on one side.

Staging and Grading

Once bladder cancer is diagnosed, it is staged and graded to determine its extent and aggressiveness:

• Staging: Describes how far the cancer has spread, ranging from Stage 0 (non-invasive) to Stage IV (advanced, with spread to other parts of the body).
• Grading: Indicates how much the cancer cells differ from normal cells, with high-grade cancers being more aggressive and likely to spread.

Treatment Options

Treatment for bladder cancer depends on the stage, grade, and overall health of the patient. Common treatment options include:

1. Surgery:
   • Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT): Used for early-stage bladder cancer, where tumors are removed through the urethra.
   • Cystectomy: Partial or radical removal of the bladder. In radical cystectomy, nearby lymph nodes and organs may also be removed.
   • Urinary Diversion: Creating a new way for urine to exit the body after the bladder is removed.
2. Intravesical Therapy:
   • The bladder is treated directly, often used after TURBT to reduce the risk of recurrence. This includes immunotherapy (such as BCG) and chemotherapy.
3. Chemotherapy:
   • Systemic chemotherapy can be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cancer cells. It can also be used for advanced cancers.
4. Radiation Therapy:
   • High-energy beams are used to kill cancer cells, often combined with chemotherapy for greater effectiveness.
5. Immunotherapy:
   • Drugs that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Checkpoint inhibitors are commonly used for advanced bladder cancer.
6. Targeted Therapy:
   • Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth and survival. Used for certain types of advanced bladder cancer.

Living with Bladder Cancer

Living with bladder cancer involves managing treatment side effects, regular follow-up care, and monitoring for recurrence. Support from healthcare providers, family, and support groups can help patients cope with the physical and emotional challenges of bladder cancer.

Why Choose Medfin?

Surgery can be a daunting aspect, and feeling anxious is normal. The massive amount of information you can get from the internet may confuse you even more. This is where Medfin can help. Leave us the hefty task of finding the best hospital, and doctor, for treating bladder cancer at the lowest costs. Let us take charge while you sit back and focus on your health and recovery. Think surgery! Think Medfin!