General Information

DEFINITION--Abnormal tissue growth in the bladder in which cell multiplication is uncontrolled. The tumor may be benign or malignant. If malignant, it may spread to lymph nodes, bone, liver and lungs.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Urinary bladder.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Adults over 50 of both sexes, but more common in men than women.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• In early stages, there may be no symptoms.
• Blood in the urine.
• Burning on urination.
• Increased frequency of urination, but passage of only small amounts of urine.
• Pain in the pelvic area.
• Unexplained weight loss.

CAUSES--Unknown. Exposure to environmental carcinogens (cancer producing substances) is the presumed cause in some cases.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Smoking.
• Family history of bladder tumors.
• Exposure to naphthylamines (dyes containing aniline) or chemicals used in the manufacture of rubber.
• Schistosomiasis (a parasitic disorder found in Africa, Middle East and countries).

HOW TO PREVENT

• Avoid exposure to chemical or environmental hazards. Protective measures in these industries and regular screening of those who have been exposed in the past has reduced the incidence.
• Don't smoke.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• Urinalysis.
• Cystoscopy (See Glossary).
• X-rays of the bladder and urinary tract.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Doctor's treatment.
• Surgery to remove the tumor or bladder. If the tumor is malignant, anticancer drugs may be instilled in the bladder during surgery. The operation also may include a procedure to divert the urinary stream. (See Bladder Removal in Surgery section.)
• Radiation treatment for some.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Infection in the bladder or kidneys. Symptoms include back pain, fever and vomiting.
• Urinary obstruction.
• Impotence for males with some surgeries. A penile implant may be considered at a later date.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--When diagnosed early, bladder cancer treatment may be successful, but recurrence is common and regular checkups are necessary. When the tumor has been present for a long time, treatment outcome is poor.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• If urinary diversion is necessary, special training and care instructions will be provided to you following the surgery. Your spouse or a family member should participate also.
• Seek psychological help or counselling support.
• See Resources for Additional Information.

MEDICATION--Your doctor may prescribe:

• Pain relievers.
• Oral anticancer drugs.

ACTIVITY--After surgery or other treatment, resume your normal activities as soon as feasible.

DIET--No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If