What is Transitional cell Carcinoma of the Urinary bladder?
Transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder is a rare type of cancer that arises from the transitional epithelium of the bladder. The transitional epithelium lines the walls of the bladder. Transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder accounts for 95% of all bladder cancers. It can affect the kidneys, ureter, bladder, and urethra. It tends to recur even after surgical removal of the tumour.
What is the Urinary bladder and what are its Functions?
The bladder is a sac-like structure in the human body, made up of muscles located in the pelvic region, and its function is to store urine. Urine produced by the kidneys enters the bladder through two tubular structures that originate in each kidney and end in the bladder. The bladder stores urine and helps control urination.
Disease Causes
The main causes of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder are genetic mutations, cigarette smoking, and exposure to certain chemicals and radiation such as agrochemicals, exposure to aniline dyes, and exposure to certain drugs such as cyclophosphamide.
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 are the main treatment options along with surgery.
What Support can we Give for Transitional cell Carcinoma of the Urinary bladder?
Transitional 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 Transitional 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!
You can help us with your donation:
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:
