Urologic & Prostate Cancer Care
Compassionate, advanced cancer treatment, right here at home. Charleston Oncology offers dedicated support and leading-edge therapies for patients in the Lowcountry.
Urologic & Prostate Cancer Care
Compassionate, advanced cancer treatment, right here at home. Charleston Oncology offers dedicated support and leading-edge therapies for patients in the Lowcountry.
Facing a urologic or prostate cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Charleston Oncology, our team provides comprehensive, patient-centered care that combines medical excellence with genuine compassion. We are committed to guiding you and your family through every step of your journey, from initial diagnosis to personalized treatment and survivorship. Our goal is to deliver the highest standard of care, conveniently located for communities across Charleston, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, and Summerville.
Cancer Care
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BOARD CERTIFIED UROLOGY & PROSTATE ONCOLOGISTS
Understanding Urologic Cancers
Urologic cancers are a group of malignancies that develop in the urinary system and the male reproductive organs. These intricate systems play vital roles in filtering waste from your body and in reproduction. Our specialized team is equipped with the knowledge and technology to diagnose and treat all forms of urologic cancer, providing you with a clear path forward.
Types of Urologic Cancers We Treat
We offer expert care for a complete range of urologic cancers. Our specialists work with you to understand your specific diagnosis and develop a tailored treatment plan.
Bladder Cancer: This cancer typically begins in the cells lining the inside of the bladder. Early detection is key, as it allows for more effective and less invasive treatment options.
Kidney (Renal) Cancer: Occurring in the small tubes within the kidneys, this cancer can affect the organ’s ability to filter blood. Many kidney cancers are found incidentally during imaging for other conditions.
Testicular Cancer: Though relatively rare, this is the most common cancer in young men. It forms in one or both testicles and is highly treatable, especially when diagnosed early.
Prostate Cancer: This cancer develops in the prostate gland, which plays a key role in male reproductive health. It often grows slowly and may not cause symptoms early on, making routine screening and early detection especially important for effective management and a wide range of treatment options.
Urethral Cancer: A very rare cancer that forms in the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. Treatment depends on the stage and location of the tumor.
Penile Cancer: Another rare cancer affecting the skin and tissues of the penis. Our team approaches this sensitive diagnosis with discretion and highly personalized care.
A Dedicated Focus on Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in men. The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder that produces seminal fluid. While many prostate cancers grow slowly and may not cause serious harm, others can be aggressive. Our team is here to provide clarity and expert guidance.
Symptoms & Risk Factors
Early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms. As it progresses, you might notice:
- Trouble urinating or a weak urine stream
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Discomfort in the pelvic area
- Key risk factors include age (risk increases significantly after 50), family history of prostate cancer, and certain genetic factors.
Screening & Staging
Screening helps detect prostate cancer before symptoms appear. Common methods include:
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A blood test that measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical exam to check the prostate for abnormalities.
- If cancer is detected, we use a staging process (I-IV) to determine its extent, which is critical for planning the most effective treatment.
Advanced Diagnostics for a Precise Plan
An accurate diagnosis is the foundation of your care. Charleston Oncology utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to understand the unique characteristics of your cancer.
Advanced Imaging: We use MRI, CT, and PET scans to locate tumors, determine their size, and see if cancer has spread.
Biopsy and Pathology: A small tissue sample is expertly analyzed by pathologists to confirm a cancer diagnosis.
Genomic Testing: In certain cases, we analyze the tumor’s genetic makeup to identify specific mutations that can be targeted with precision therapies.
Advanced Diagnostics for a Precise Plan
Your treatment plan is designed specifically for you, considering your cancer type, stage, and overall health. We offer a full spectrum of advanced therapies.
Active Surveillance: For slow-growing cancers, like some prostate cancers, we may recommend closely monitoring the condition without immediate treatment to avoid side effects.
Surgery: We coordinate with the area’s top urologic surgeons to provide seamless care for tumor removal.
Radiation Therapy: Our centers offer the latest radiation technologies to precisely target and destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. This includes advanced techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT).
Advanced Diagnostics for a Precise Plan
Hormone Therapy: Often used for prostate cancer, this treatment reduces levels of male hormones (androgens) that fuel cancer cell growth.
Chemotherapy: Uses powerful drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells throughout the body.
Immunotherapy: Boosts your own immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs that target specific genetic vulnerabilities in cancer cells.
Supportive Care for Your Well-Being
Cancer treatment affects more than just your body. We provide integrated supportive care to help you manage side effects, maintain your quality of life, and address your emotional and practical needs throughout treatment.
Access to Clinical Trials
As part of our commitment to advancing cancer care, Charleston Oncology offers patients access to innovative clinical trials. These studies provide opportunities to receive promising new therapies that may not be widely available elsewhere. Ask your care team if a clinical trial could be right for you.
Why Choose Charleston Oncology?
When you choose us, you are choosing a partner in your health. We are deeply rooted in the Charleston community and dedicated to providing accessible, world-class care close to home.
Local, Coordinated Care: Our entire team works together to ensure your care is seamless, from consultations to treatment and follow-up. We navigate your care across the RSFH specialists your personalized treatment plan requires.
Expert Team: You will be cared for by a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, nurses, therapists, and support staff who specialize in urologic cancers.
Timely Appointments: We strive to schedule consultations as quickly as possible, often within the same week, because we know that waiting for answers is one of the hardest parts.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first appointment is a time for us to get to know you and for you to get to know us. We will review your medical history, discuss your diagnosis, answer your questions, and outline potential next steps. Please bring your medical records, a list of current medications, and a family member or friend for support.
Insurance & Referrals
We accept most major insurance plans and will work with you to navigate coverage and financial questions. Our team can also assist with the referral process if one is required by your provider.
Urologic and Prostate Cancers Q & A
What are the most common gastrointestinal cancers?
- Bladder Cancer
- Kidney (Renal) Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Urethral Cancer
- Penile Cancer
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
Your oncologist will recommend a treatment plan based on your specific cancer type and stage, your overall health, and your personal preferences. We believe in shared decision-making and will discuss all options with you.
What are the side effects of treatment?
Side effects vary widely depending on the type of treatment. Your care team will explain potential side effects in detail and provide proactive strategies to manage them and maintain your quality of life.
Will I need to travel far for treatment?
Our centers are conveniently located throughout the greater Charleston area, allowing you to receive exceptional care without the burden of long-distance travel.
How can my family get involved in my care?
We encourage patients to involve family and caregivers. They are welcome at appointments (with your permission) and can be a valuable source of support. We provide resources to help them as well.
Take the Next Step
Your journey to healing starts with a conversation. Let our team provide the expert guidance and compassionate care you deserve.
Our Locations:
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt like my whole world stopped. But from the moment I walked into Charleston Oncology, I knew I was in the right hands. The doctors explained everything clearly and made me feel like I wasn’t just another patient — I was part of their family.
Sarah T – Breast Cancer Survivor
Stories from our Patients
Our patients share their journey with newly diagnosed patients. Here their inspirational stories and advice
during the fight against breast cancer.
Read the Blogs
The Importance of Subspecialization in Oncology: Our Commitment at Charleston Oncology
The Importance of Subspecialization in Oncology: Our Commitment at Charleston OncologyAt Charleston Oncology, we know that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. For most patients, the search for the right doctor quickly becomes one of the most important steps on...
Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers: What You Should Know
Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers: What You Should KnowAt Charleston Oncology, we understand that lung cancer is often linked to smoking, but it’s important to remember that lung cancer can affect anyone, even those who have never smoked. As part of Lung Cancer Awareness...
Why Early Detection Matters: Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines By Age
Why Early Detection Matters: Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines By AgeBreast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women, but it is also one of the most treatable when found early. Early detection is the single most powerful tool we have in the fight against...
Voted Best In Charleston
Charleston Oncology – Best Oncology Practice
With over 100 years of combined experience, the team of hematologists and oncologists at Charleston Oncology, a department of Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital, is proud to be named HealthLinks Magazine’s Best Oncology Practice.
David Ellison, M.D. – Best Oncologist
Honored as Best Oncologist, Dr. David Ellison is a past recipient of the Physician Champion Award from the Roper St. Francis Foundation, founding chairman of the Lowcountry Komen for the Cure Foundation, and principal investigator for several groundbreaking cancer drug clinical trials.
Common Questions
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF BREAST CANCER?
Under the heading of breast cancer are several different types of the disease. While any cancer diagnosis is severe, the kind of cancer dictates to a great extent the nature of treatment you will receive. The main types of breast cancer are:
IN SITU CANCERS
These types of cancer are noninvasive, as well as pre-invasive, and are found in the milk glands in your breast. While these cancers are localized, they still warrant treatment and bear close monitoring because they can become more aggressive.
INVASIVE BREAST CANCERS
Invasive cancers, such as the more common invasive ductal carcinoma and invasive lobular carcinoma, need treatment because they have spread into your breast tissue.
There are rarer forms of breast cancer, which account for less than 3-9% of cancer cases, and include:
- Angiosarcoma
- Inflammatory breast cancer
- Paget disease of the nipple
- Phyllodes tumor
Messsages from our Physicians
What are the Different Types of Breast Cancer?
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How is Breast Cancer Treated?
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Will I Lose My Hair During Treatment?
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Medical Oncology and Hematology Specialists located in Downtown Charleston, North Charleston, West Ashley, Mt. Pleasant, Summerville & Walterboro, SC.
