Non-muscle invasive papillary bladder cancer
What is Non-Muscle Invasive Papillary Bladder Cancer?
Non-muscle invasive papillary bladder cancer is a type of urothelial cancer. It starts in the cells inside the bladder, usually the cells lining the inside of the bladder (transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder or urothelial carcinoma).
It is one of the most common types of bladder cancers. It can spread to nearby areas, such as the ureters and the kidneys, but usually does not spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms can include frequent urination, pain or burning on urination, and blood in the urine.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of non-muscle invasive papillary bladder cancer is usually done through a cystoscopy, a procedure in which a tube with a light is inserted into the bladder to look for tumors. Other tests may also be done to confirm diagnosis, such as a urine test, imaging studies, biopsy, and other tests.
Treatment usually involves one or a combination of the following approaches:
- Surgery, including transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) or radical cystectomy (removal of the bladder)
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Intravesical therapy, in which medications are injected directly into the bladder
For most people with non-muscle invasive papillary bladder cancer, the prognosis is generally good if the cancer is caught early and treated properly. It is important to follow the recommended treatment plan and watchful waiting protocols to ensure best outcomes.