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Bladder
Cancer
DEFINITION:
The lining of the bladder, known as the urothelium, also lines
the upper tracts (the kidney, pelvis and ureters) and a portion
of the urethra. Patients with urothelial cancer (most commonly
found in the bladder) commonly present with blood in the urine
(either clearly visible or microscopic). Because of the potential
involvement of the upper tracts, imaging studies are generally
performed to assess the entire urothelium for this possibility
when hematuria (blood in the urine) occurs. Cystoscopy (a
direct visual examination of the urinary tract with a cystoscope)
is performed to visually examine the bladder. The presence
of a bladder tumor then requires resection through the cystoscope
in order to determine the extent of disease and the possible
need for additional treatments.
TREATMENTS
In most instances, transurethral resection (possibly with
introduction of medications into the bladder) will cure the
cancer, though continued periodic monitoring is needed to
watch for recurrence. If the initial bladder cancer has invaded
the muscle layer of the bladder wall, cystectomy (removal
of the bladder) is needed in order to attempt to cure the
disease. In this instance various forms of urinary diversion
can be performed in order to preserve the best quality of
life possible.
FIND
A DOCTOR This surgery is performed by the following
physician(s). Click on a name for a complete profile and contact
information.
Michael
Palese, MD
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