Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the bladder, a hollow organ located in the pelvis. It is the fourth most common cancer in men and the tenth most common cancer in women. The treatment options for bladder cancer depend on various factors such as the stage and grade of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and their preferences.
Surgery is often the primary treatment for bladder cancer. The type of surgery performed depends on the stage and extent of the cancer. Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is a common surgical procedure used for early-stage bladder cancer. During this procedure, a surgeon removes the tumor from the bladder using a cystoscope inserted through the urethra. In more advanced cases, a partial or complete removal of the bladder (cystectomy) may be necessary. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It can be administered before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells, or as the primary treatment for advanced bladder cancer. Chemotherapy can be given intravenously or directly into the bladder (intravesical chemotherapy). The choice of drugs and duration of treatment depend on the stage and grade of the cancer.
Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that helps the immune system fight cancer. Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is a commonly used immunotherapy for bladder cancer. It is administered directly into the bladder through a catheter. BCG stimulates the immune system to attack and destroy cancer cells. Immunotherapy can be used after TURBT to prevent recurrence or as a treatment for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used as the primary treatment for bladder cancer in patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery. Radiation therapy can also be used after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells or to relieve symptoms in advanced cases. External beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy are the two main types of radiation therapy used for bladder cancer.
Targeted therapy is a treatment that targets specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth. It works by interfering with specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Targeted therapy drugs are often used in advanced bladder cancer cases when other treatments have not been effective. They are usually administered orally.
After treatment, regular follow-up care is crucial to monitor for any signs of recurrence or potential side effects. Follow-up care may include regular check-ups, imaging tests, urine tests, and other diagnostic procedures. It is important for patients to communicate any new symptoms or concerns to their healthcare team.
It is essential for individuals diagnosed with bladder cancer to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their specific condition. The treatment options mentioned above are general approaches, and the actual treatment plan may vary for each patient.