What is Adenocarcinoma of the Urethra?
Urethral adenocarcinoma is a rare type of cancer that originates from the cells that make up the mucus-secreting glands of the urethra. It is a very rare cancer and accounts for less than 1% of all types of cancer. The survival rate ranges from 83%-36%.What is Urethra?
The urethra is a tubular structure that connects the urinary bladder to the urinary meatus. The urinary tract is the opening of the urethra that opens outside the body. Urine exits the body through the urethra and urinary meatus.Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, but risk factors such as urethral strictures, chronic urethral inflammation such as repeated insertion of a urine catheter (urine tube and bag), exposure to certain types of radiation or radiation therapy, chronic urethral inflammation from sexually transmitted infections, are responsible for the development of adenocarcinoma of the urethra.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 Tests (RFTs) to check the serum urea and creatinine
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- 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 and urethra 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 Urethral Adenocarcinoma?
Urethral Adenocarcinoma 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 Urethral Adenocarcinoma, 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.
