Ta Bladder Papillary Urothelial Carcinoma

What is Bladder Papillary Urothelial Carcinoma?

Bladder papillary urothelial carcinoma is a type of tumor that originates in the cells of the lining of the bladder. This tumor can grow in the bladder for several years before it is detected. It is usually discovered when someone's doctor performs a cystoscopy, which is a procedure to look inside the bladder.

This type of cancer can affect people of all ages, but it is more common among older adults. It is also more common in men than women. The cause of this type of cancer is not known, but it is thought to be linked to chronic inflammation of the bladder.

Symptoms of Bladder Papillary Urothelial Carcinoma

The most common symptom of bladder papillary urothelial carcinoma is blood in the urine (hematuria). This symptom is usually painless and doctors may not notice it during a routine urine test. Other symptoms may include:

  • Painful urination
  • Frequent or urgent need to urinate
  • Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder
  • Lower back pain

Diagnosis and Treatment of Bladder Papillary Urothelial Carcinoma

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, your doctor may order additional diagnostic tests. These may include:

  • Urinalysis - examines the urine for signs of infection or cancer
  • Urine cytology - looks for abnormal cells in the urine
  • Ultrasound or CT scan - uses sound waves to create a picture of the bladder
  • Cystoscopy - uses a scope to view the inside of the bladder and take tissue samples

Once your doctor has diagnosed bladder papillary urothelial carcinoma, the next step is to determine the stage of the cancer. Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease, but may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy.

Prevention of Bladder Papillary Urothelial Carcinoma

Since the cause of bladder papillary urothelial carcinoma is unknown, it can be difficult to prevent it. However, some general tips to reduce your risk of bladder cancer include:

  • Quitting smoking
  • Drinking sufficient amounts of water
  • Limiting the consumption of alcohol
  • Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
  • Maintaining good hygiene in the genital area
  • Avoiding exposure to toxins like asbestos and benzene