23/05/2024
Bladder cancer awareness month
What to Expect After Being Diagnosed with a Urinary Bladder Tumor ?
Receiving a diagnosis of a urinary bladder tumor can be overwhelming and unsettling. Understanding what to expect and the steps involved in managing this condition can help you navigate the journey with greater confidence and clarity.
Understanding Your Diagnosis
A urinary bladder tumor occurs when abnormal cells in the bladder grow uncontrollably. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A Urologist will perform various tests to determine the nature and stage of the tumor, which is crucial for planning the appropriate treatment.
Diagnostic Procedures
1. Cystoscopy:A thin, tube with a camera is inserted through the urethra to visualize the bladder lining and take biopsies if necessary.
2. Imaging Tests:CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound may be used to get a detailed view of the bladder and surrounding organs.
3. Biopsy:A tissue sample from the tumor is examined under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous and to identify the type and grade of cancer.
Treatment Options
The treatment plan for a urinary bladder tumor depends on various factors, including the type, grade, and stage of the tumor, as well as your overall health and preferences. Common treatment options include:
1. Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT):
- A common procedure for removing tumors confined to the bladder’s inner layers. It involves inserting a scope through the urethra to remove the tumor.
2. Intravesical Therapy:
- Medications are directly instilled into the bladder to target cancer cells. This is often used for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
3. Radical Cystectomy:
- Surgical removal of the entire bladder may be necessary for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. This procedure might include the removal of nearby lymph nodes and parts of the urethra.
4. Chemotherapy:
- Systemic treatment using drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cancer cells.
5. Radiation Therapy:
- High-energy beams are used to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be an alternative to surgery in certain cases.
6. Immunotherapy:
- Treatments that stimulate your immune system to fight cancer. Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy is a common immunotherapy for bladder cancer.
A urinary bladder tumor diagnosis is a significant life event, but with comprehensive treatment plan and support system, many people continue to lead fulfilling lives.
Stay informed, actively participate in your care, and reach out for support when needed.
Reach out to us for more information ( Direct message on LinkedIn / email at docashwinmallya@gmail.com)