Bladder Cancer
The bladder
is the organ that stores urine. Urine is made in the kidneys
and flows into the bladder through thin tubes called ureters.
Urine empties from the bladder through a tube called the urethra.
Types of Bladder Cancer
There are three main types of bladder cancer characterized
by the way they look under a microscope:
·
- Urothelial carcinoma is the most common
type of bladder cancer. Within this group are several sub-types
categorized by their shape and whether they tend to spread
(are invasive).
- Squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma
are less common and usually invasive.
Treatment
Options
Most bladder cancer can be treated locally, without removing
the bladder. Often patients need topical agents (BCG or chemotherapy)
placed directly into the bladder to decrease the likelihood
the cancer will return. When a cancerous bladder must be removed,
Washington University urologic surgeons can offer a variety
of reconstructive techniques to maximize the patient's quality
of life. For instance, in some cases, a replacement bladder
can be created with bowel segments. This surgical technique
allows both male and female patients to achieve nearly normal
continence without the need for appliances.
For
patient appointments, call (314) 362-8200
(Center for Advanced Medicine and Barnes-Jewish West County
Hospital).
More information about bladder
cancer:
Washington University physicians are the medical staff of
Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children's Hospital
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