Superficial bladder cancer is a stage one malignancy that can be diagnosed through urinalysis, imaging tests, and biopsy. The cause is unknown, but exposure to workplace carcinogens and smoking increase the risk. Surgery is the first step in treatment, followed by radiation and chemotherapy. Symptoms include frequent and painful urination, abdominal discomfort, and blood in urine.
Superficial bladder cancer is a malignant tumor that has not breached the bladder wall. Remaining within the inner bladder, superficial bladder cancer is considered a stage one malignancy. Having a high recurrence rate, bladder cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to treat successfully; however, if it is diagnosed early, the chance of recurrence decreases. Surgery to remove the tumor is an essential component of treatment for superficial bladder cancer. Subsequent cancer therapies, including radiation and chemo, may also be given to eliminate any remaining malignancies.
A variety of diagnostic tests can be performed to confirm a diagnosis of superficial bladder cancer. Initial urinalysis can identify cancerous cells requiring imaging tests, including ultrasound and a computed tomography (CT) scan, to evaluate the urinary tract, especially the urinary bladder. A biopsy of the tumor is usually done for laboratory tests to discount or confirm it as malignant. Additional imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are helpful in determining the invasiveness or staging of the tumor.
All cancers are started by genetic mutations of cells. What triggers that cellular mutation is often unknown. When cells reproduce continuously and there is no cell death, the multitude of cells gather to form a growth, or tumor. Superficial bladder cancer arises from a mutation in the organ’s transition cells.
There is no single known cause for developing bladder cancer. Regular exposure to workplace carcinogens, including aromatic amines, as can occur with occupations such as painting and textiles, appears to increase the risk of bladder cancer. Individuals who smoke and those with a history of bladder problems, including recurring infections and stones, are also considered to be more at risk of developing bladder cancer.
The signs and symptoms of superficial bladder cancer may be subtle at first but progress rapidly. Individuals experience frequent and painful urination which may or may not be accompanied by abdominal discomfort. Recurring urinary tract infection is another sign of possible malignancy within the bladder. It is not uncommon for some people with superficial bladder cancer to pass blood when urinating. Depending on the concentration of blood, the color of urine may not change or may take on a deep yellow or brown hue.
Surgery to remove the tumor is the first step in treating bladder cancer. Since the tumor has not become invasive to surrounding tissue, it can be removed in its entirety without complications. Subsequent treatment for superficial bladder cancer is often individualized and depends on the individual’s overall health. Radiation and chemotherapy are typically used to ensure that any remaining cancerous cells are eradicated. Both therapies can produce side effects depending on the dose and route of administration, including decreased appetite, nausea and fatigue.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
