Cancer Of The Bladder And Ureters
Cancer of the bladder and ureters refers to malignant tumors that arise from the lining of the urinary tract. Most of these cancers originate from urothelial cells, which line the bladder and the tubes (ureters) that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Early symptoms can include blood in the urine, frequent urination, or pelvic pain, but some people have no symptoms until the disease is more advanced. Imaging plays an important role in detecting tumors, assessing their extent, and guiding treatment planning.
What is it?
Bladder and ureter cancers are usually urothelial carcinomas, meaning they arise from the cells that line the urinary tract. These cancers may grow as small papillary (finger-like) projections or as flat, invasive tumors. Bladder cancers are more common and often detected earlier because they cause blood in the urine. Ureteral cancers are less common but can block the flow of urine, leading to flank pain or kidney swelling.
Imaging helps identify tumors, evaluate whether they have invaded the bladder wall or surrounding tissues, and check for blockages or spread to lymph nodes. CT urography is especially effective for detecting tumors in both the bladder and ureters, while MRI may be used in certain cases for detailed staging. Cystoscopy and ureteroscopy allow direct visualization and are essential for diagnosis.
Important to Know
The stage and grade of the tumor determine treatment and prognosis. Non–muscle-invasive bladder cancers may be treated with endoscopic removal and intravesical therapy, while muscle-invasive cancers may require more extensive surgery or systemic treatment. Ureteral cancers may need surgery to remove part or all of the affected ureter.
Red flag symptoms include visible blood in the urine, inability to urinate, severe pelvic or flank pain, unexplained weight loss, or signs of infection. These symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation. Follow-up imaging and cystoscopy are often required to monitor for recurrence because urothelial cancers can return over time.