Early Stage Bladder Cancer

Overview

Early Stage Bladder Cancer is the beginning stage of cancer where it is found on the surface of the inner lining of the bladder or has invaded the connective tissue but has not invaded the muscle layer of the bladder. At this point, cancer has not spread to lymph nodes or distant sites.

Signs and Symptoms

Pain in the suprapubic region or groin area, Back pain, Growing mass at the suprapubic region, Hematuria, Frequent urination, Dysuria (pain during micturation), Weight loss, Fever

Common Causes

Cigarette smoking, Occupational hazards such as exposure to certain chemicals, Radiation exposure, Chronic irritation to the lining of the bladder wall, Parasitic infection such as Schistosoma haematobium

Risk Factors

Age, Gender, Smoking, Exposure to chemicals, Cancer of the prostate, colon, uterus or ovary, Previous cancer treatment, Family history, Repeated bladder inflammation

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count, Urine assessment (urinalysis), Urine culture and cytology, Renal function test, Liver function test, Intravenous urogram, Ultrasound, CT urogram, MRI scan

Treatment and Prevention

Transurethral resection of the bladder tumour (TURBT), Intravesical BCG regimen, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy