
Bladder cancer refers to several types of
malignant growthsCancerous tumors, created by uncontrolled cell division, which expand quickly and can spread to other areas of the body. that form in the urinary bladder. The bladder is a hollow organ which is located in the pelvis and is in charge of storing the urine before it is discharged from our body.
The most common bladder cancer, 95% of all cases, is Transitional Cell Carcinoma. This cancer originates in the inner lining cells of the organ. The second type is Squamous Cell Carcinoma that originates in thin flat cells in the bladder. The third and final type, called adenocarcinoma, is an extremely rare type of bladder cancer and forms in cells that produce and release fluids and mucus. Both adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma develop from a state of chronic irritation and inflammation in the bladder's inner lining.
Bladder cancer usually occurs in older men and women over the age of 40. About 80% of bladder cancer detections are made at early stages where the cancer growth is still superficial. It should be known that superficial cancerous growths have a tendency of returning, sometimes years after successful treatments.
The common bladder cancer symptoms can include:
The specific bladder cancer treatments will depend on the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer and the size of the growth. The doctor will also take into consideration the age and general health of the patient.
Treatments for this cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and biotherapyMedication that uses the body's natural immune system abilities to fight a disease or infection. It can also protect the body from unwanted side effects of certain treatments.. The common treatment for bladder cancer is surgery. However, there are three types of procedures that depend on the stage of the cancer.
Patients with superficial tumors can undergo a ' Transurethral resection' in which an electrical probe is inserted and the cancerous cells are "shaved off" the bladder by the use of heat.
Then there are two types of surgical bladder removals. There is the complete bladder removal (Radical cystectomy) along with surrounding tissue, depending how far the cancer spread and there is a partial bladder removal (Segmental cystectomy), where the surgeon will remove only the infected tissue in the bladder.
Once diagnosed with bladder cancer, you want to receive the highest quality of treatment in order to regain your health. TicketMed will accompany you in the decision making process, assist you in getting the correct treatment and arrange all the information you will need about your illness. Contact us or ask for a quote.
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