Bladder Cancer
Each year, more than 81,000 new cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed in the United States, overwhelmingly among men (by more than 3:1). Thankfully, this type of cancer isn’t aggressive, allowing ample time for treatment. To get this treatment, rely on the team at Charleston Oncology for the most up-to-date protocols. If you’re dealing with bladder cancer, call today to request an appointment.Bladder Cancer Q & A
What are the most common forms of bladder cancer?
Far and away, the most common form of bladder cancer is urothelial carcinoma, or transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), which starts in the urothelial cells along the inside of your bladder. These cells are also found in other areas of your urinary tract, so cancer may also develop in your:
- Kidney (the part that attaches to your urinary tract)
- Ureters
- Urethra
TCC is typically divided into invasive and non-invasive types, depending upon whether it’s just the lining that’s affected or whether the cells have invaded deeper into the walls of your bladder.
There are other types of bladder cancers, though they are relatively rare, and include:
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Adenocarcinoma
- Small cell carcinoma
The good news is that seven out of 10 diagnoses occur during the early stages of the disease.
How is bladder cancer diagnosed?
- Urinalysis
- Cystoscopy, where your doctor inserts a tiny camera into your urethra
- Biopsy, which your doctor may execute during your cystoscopy
- CT urogram with contrast dye
- Retrograde pyelogram using a catheter, contrast dye, and X-ray imaging
How is bladder cancer treated?
There’s no single answer to this question as it depends upon the extent and stage of your bladder cancer. In its early stages, your doctor may recommend a minimally invasive surgery called a transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) to remove the tumor or a partial cystectomy to remove part of your bladder. If cancer has affected a large portion of your bladder, they may recommend a radical cystectomy to remove your entire bladder.
If your bladder is removed, the surgeon will then create a new way for urine to leave your body.
Outside of the surgeries, the team at Charleston Oncology offers the following treatments to eradicate the disease:
- Immunotherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Clinical trials
If preserving your bladder is important, the team works with your surgeon to provide multi-pronged approaches that rely on one or more of the therapies listed above alongside surgery.
To explore your bladder cancer treatment options, call Charleston Oncology to schedule a consultation.
Send UsA Message
A Grateful Patient’s Breast Cancer Journey
I am currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer at Roper St. Francis Hospital and would like to acknowledge two physicians who truly embody your mission of “healing with compassion, faith and excellence”.
National Cancer Survivor Month
Please join Charleston Oncology and the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) in support of National Survivor Month, celebrating those who have fought the disease and those currently in treatment.
National Cancer Survivor Month
June is National Cancer Survivor Month and throughout the month we are honoring our brave patients and sharing their inspirational stories.
Melanoma Prevention and Awareness
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops when melanocytes (the cells that give the skin its tan or brown color) start to grow out of control. Watch the video to learn more about melanoma from Charleston Oncology’s Dr. Charles S. Holladay.
Tips for Diagnosing Breast Cancer Early
Dr. Shelly Shand shares important tips for diagnosing breast cancer early and the latest advancements in breast cancer.
Staying Aware for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Staying Aware for Breast Cancer Awareness monthCharleston Oncology is proud to sponsor Staying Aware for Breast Cancer Awareness month in conjunction with WCIV News Channel 4. We continue to partner with our community to ensure that every woman has the best chance of...