It ranks eleventh in incidence among all cancers diagnosed in both sexes and seventh in men. It is more common in men, as its main risk factor is smoking, a habit that has traditionally been more frequently associated with the male sex.

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer:

Invasive tumours are those that have been shown to reach the muscle layer of the bladder. This result is obtained after pathological examination of the transurethral resection of the bladder.

The treatment for bladder cancer consists of removing the bladder and surrounding lymph nodes, together with a urinary diversion.

Possible urinary diversions are:

  • Neobladder: This involves creating a new bladder from the intestine. This bladder can be located in the same place as the natural bladder or in another position.
  • Intestinal loop diversion: This involves diverting urine to a loop of small/large intestine that is attached to the abdominal wall.

Our patient support unit will provide you with the necessary support to cope with this new stage. Our nurses will show you how to carry out the necessary care at all times to make your daily life comfortable and ensure that all your needs are met.

Risk factors

Smoking is the main risk factor, affecting approximately 50% of cases.

Exposure to occupational risk factors such as aromatic amines, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and chlorinated hydrocarbons.

SintomasSintomasSYMPTOMS

Haematuria is the main symptom. It can sometimes manifest as:

  • Discomfort when urinating
  • Burning sensation
  • Pain
  • Stinging sensation
  • Increased urinary frequency

If you notice any of these symptoms, please consult us and we will carry out a complete examination to rule out bladder cancer.

DiagnosticoDiagnosticoDIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis of bladder cancer is based primarily on urine cytology and ultrasound.

Urine cytology is a simple, non-invasive test that detects the presence of malignant cells.

Genetic studies

In our study protocols, we use tests that improve the detection of bladder cancer through genetic studies in urine that will inform us about the aggressiveness of the cancer.

Cystoscopy allows us to use an endoscopic camera to examine suspicious images of the bladder mucosa that may have been detected in other tests such as ultrasound.

Other tests that may be used are:

  • Computed axial tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, which will be used to study the disease outside the bladder in the case of invasive disease.
  • PET/CT allows us to distinguish cancerous tissue.
TratamientoTratamientoTREATMENT

Treatment will depend on whether the tumour is invasive or non-invasive.

Non-invasive tumour:

A transurethral resection of the bladder is performed. The procedure is the same for both women and men and is performed through the urethra. This procedure will provide samples that will be studied to determine whether further treatment is necessary.

After this procedure, the patient may require intravesical treatment administered with urethral catheters:

  • BCG.
  • Mitomycin.
Specialties:
  • Urology