Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Bladder cancer is a tumor that develops from cells lining the inner surface of the bladder. This type of cancer accounts for about 3% of all cancers and is one of the most common types of cancer of the urinary system.

Causes

The risk of bladder cancer increases in people who work with aromatic amines such as benzidine, analine and naphthol. These substances are found in paints, dyes, rubber, plastics and other industrial products. The risk of the disease also increases in people suffering from chronic cystitis, an infectious disease of the bladder.

Symptoms

The first symptom of bladder cancer in 75% of cases is hematuria - the appearance of blood in the urine. In addition, frequent urination, hydronephrosis and inflammatory complications such as cystitis and pyelonephritis may occur.

Diagnostics

To diagnose bladder cancer, cystoscopy is performed - examination of the inner surface of the bladder using a special instrument. In this case, if a suspicious tumor is detected, a biopsy is performed. Additional diagnostic methods are excretory urography, computed tomography, and ultrasound.

Treatment

Treatment for bladder cancer depends on the stage of the tumor. For stage in situ and superficial cancer (T1-2), transurethral resection of the bladder is performed, and for stage T2, partial resection of the bladder is performed. For large invasive tumors (T3-4), cystectomy with or without pelvic lymphadenectomy is recommended.

For bladder cancer stage T4, involvement of retroperitoneal lymph nodes (N1-3), and distant metastases, chemotherapy is of primary importance. Often, intravesical chemotherapy is also advisable in the early stages of the disease in cases of multicentrically growing cancer. For systemic treatment, cisplatin or a combination of cisplatin, adriamycin and 5-fluorouracil (cyclophosphamide) is recommended. One of the following drugs is administered intravesically: cisilatin, adriamycin or thiophosphamide.

The five-year survival rate for stages T1-2 is 50-80%, and for stages T3-4 - 20-30%. However, as with any type of cancer, the prognosis depends on many factors, including the stage of the tumor, its size and spread, as well as the age and general condition of the patient.

Conclusion

Bladder cancer is a serious disease that can lead to severe complications, including metastases to other organs. Early detection and treatment can improve the chances of survival and improve patients' quality of life. At the first symptoms, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and prescribing the necessary treatment.