What is Transitional Cell Carcinoma (Ureter)?
Transitional Cell Carcinoma (Ureter) is a rare cancer that arises from the transitional cells of the ureter. The ureter is lined with transitional cells. The ureter is a long, hollow tube that extends from each kidney and ends in the bladder. The human body has two ureters that collect urine from each kidney and drain into the bladder. It is also known as the Urothelial tumour of the ureter.Disease Epidemiology
Transitional cell carcinoma (ureter) makes only 2-3% of kidney and ureter tumours. The annual incidence of transitional cell carcinoma (ureter) is approximately 2 per 100,000 populations in Europe. The mean age at the diagnosis of the disease is 65 years. It is slightly more common in males as compared to females.Disease Etiology
There is no well-known cause, however, certain hereditary genetic mutations and risk factors such as cigarette smoking, excessive consumption of coffee or tea usually more than 7 cups per day, excessive and unnecessary consumption of pain relievers, occupational exposure to chemicals used in plastic, and tar industries and interstitial nephritis are considered responsible for transitional cell carcinoma (ureter).Signs and Symptoms
The patient may present with the following signs and symptoms. These are- Pain in the loin
- Passage of blood or blood particles in the urine
- A palpable mass in the loin or abdomen
- Pain while passing urine
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- High blood pressure
- Fever
- Lethargy
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; it is similar to an ultrasound examination of the ureter, which allows direct visualization of the ureter with cystoscopy.
- Urinary cytology; is a microscopic examination of the cells present in urine and their characteristics.
Treatment
Surgical removal of the tumour or ureter, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are the main treatment options.What Support can we Give for Transitional Cell Carcinoma (Ureter)?
Transitional Cell Carcinoma (Ureter) is a 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 (Ureter), 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:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
