Urothelial carcinoma ureter metastatic
Urothelial Carcinoma of Ureter: Definition, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Urothelial carcinoma of ureter is a type of cancer that affects the ureter, one of the tubes that carries urine from your kidneys to your bladder. It's also known as transitional cell carcinoma, which means cancer arising from the cells that line your ureter.
Urothelial carcinoma of the ureter is considered to be a rare cancer, though its incidence is increasing. It's estimated that each year in the United States, about 5,400 new cases are diagnosed.
Causes of Urothelial Carcinoma of Ureter
The exact cause of urothelial carcinoma of the ureter remains unknown. However, there are several risk factors that are thought to contribute to the development of this cancer.
- Cigarette smoking: Current and long-term smoking increases the risk of developing this cancer.
- Age: It is more common in people ages 65 and older.
- Exposure to certain chemicals: Chronic exposure to certain chemicals through work or home environments may increase the risk of developing this cancer.
- Having a weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or who are taking immunosuppressive drugs are more at risk.
Symptoms of Urothelial Carcinoma of Ureter
The symptoms of urothelial carcinoma of the ureter are often feeling discomfort and pain in the side or abdomen. Other symptoms may include:
- Blood in urine (hematuria)
- Bone pain
- Changes in urinary habits
- Difficulty urinating or pain when urinating
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Lower back or abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Swelling of the legs
Diagnosis of Urothelial Carcinoma of Ureter
If your doctor suspects that you have urothelial carcinoma of the ureter, a number of tests can be used to confirm the diagnosis. These may include:
- CT scan: this is a series of X-rays used to create detailed images of the kidney, bladder, ureters, and other structures in the body.
- Cystoscopy: a thin, lighted tube is used to examine the inside of the bladder and ureters.
- MRI: a test that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body.
- Urine tests: urine may be examined for signs of cancerous cells.
- Ultrasound: A test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the bladder, kidneys, and other organs.
- Biopsy: A procedure where a sample of tissue is taken from the affected area and examined for signs of cancer.
Treatment of Urothelial Carcinoma of Ureter
Treatment for urothelial carcinoma of the ureter depends on the stage of the cancer and how it has spread. Treatments may include:
- Surgery: Removal of the kidney, ureter, and surrounding tissues. This is usually only an option for early stages of the cancer.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation is used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells. It can be used before or after surgery to shrink tumors or as a palliative therapy to reduce pain and other symptoms.
- Immunotherapy: This type of therapy is used to strengthen the body’s immune system to help it fight cancer.
- Targeted therapy: This type of therapy is used to target specific proteins or genes in cancer cells and stop them from growing and spreading.
Urothelial carcinoma of the ureter is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Early detection and treatment are key to improving the chance of successful treatment and recovery. If you experience any symptoms of this condition, seek medical attention right away.