What is Small Cell Carcinoma of the Urinary bladder?
Small cell carcinoma of the bladder is a rare type of highly aggressive tumour that manifests itself as symptoms of blood or blood particles in the urine and pain when urinating. An aggressive or high-grade tumour is a tumour that grows rapidly and spreads to other parts of the body.Disease Epidemiology
It is a very rare cancer and accounts for approximately 0.35% to 1.8% of all cancers of the urinary bladder. It is more common in males as compared to females with a male to female ratio is 5:1. The incidence of small cell carcinoma of the bladder is higher in Caucasian white people.Disease Etiology (Causes)
There is no well-known cause, however, certain genetic mutations (faulty alterations in certain genes) are considered responsible for the development of the disease. There has been a link between the development of small cell carcinoma of the bladder and cigarette smoking. The average age at onset of small cell carcinoma of the bladder is 67 years, with a range of 32 to 91 years.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- (Hematuria) Presence of blood in the urine
- Pain while urination
- Pain in the abdomen
- Usually diagnosed in advanced stages
- Pain while passing urine
- Constant fever
- Unexplained loss of weight
- Constant feeling of tiredness
- Excessive sweating at night
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Urine complete examination (UCE) to detect any urinary tract infection and blood in the urine
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Renal Function Test (RFT’s) to check the serum urea and creatinine
- Liver function tests (LFT’s)
- Imaging techniques like CT-abdomen and pelvis, USG abdomen and pelvis, MRI, CT-chest, and X-ray to assess the site, size, extent, and distant metastasis of the tumour.
- Cystoscopy; is similar to an ultrasound examination of the urinary bladder, which allows direct visualization of the ureter with cystoscopy.
- Urinary cytology; is a microscopic examination of the cells present in urine and their characteristics.
- Tumour biopsy and histopathological examination
Treatment
Surgical resection (cutting off the tumour or diseased part and rejoining the reaming healthy part of the organ or tissue to keep it functional) of the tumour along with radiation therapy and chemotherapy is the main treatment option.
What Support can we Give for Small Cell Carcinoma of the Urinary bladder?
Small Cell Carcinoma of the Urinary bladder is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Small Cell Carcinoma of the Urinary bladder, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
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Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
