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Bladder Cancer Specialist

Urology Associates Medical Group Our Services Bladder Cancer

Urology Associates Medical Group

Urologists located in Burbank, CA

Bladder cancer develops when abnormal cells begin multiplying in the bladder. If left untreated, this condition can be deadly. Urology Associates Medical Group offers a variety of treatment options to patients with bladder cancer in Burbank, California. Patients can call the practice or schedule an appointment online with any of the experienced physicians.

Bladder Cancer Q & A

What is bladder cancer?

Bladder cancer is a condition that develops when cancerous cells begin to grow and multiply in the bladder, which is an organ in the pelvis that stores urine. This type of cancer is most common in older adults, but it can occur at any age.

What causes bladder cancer?

Researchers don’t know the exact cause of bladder cancer. However, this condition has been linked to exposure to certain chemicals, a history of parasitic infections, and a history of smoking. The cancer begins when cells in the bladder begin to grow and divide in an abnormal way. These cells form a cancerous tumor that can eventually spread to other parts of the body.

What are the symptoms of bladder cancer?

In its earlier stages, bladder cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as it progresses, patients may notice:

  • Pain in the pelvis
  • Back pain
  • Pain when urinating
  • More frequent urination
  • Blood in the urine

How does Urology Associates Medical Group diagnose bladder cancer?

If the doctors at Urology Associates Medical Group suspect bladder cancer, they may order several different tests to investigate the issue. Some tests used to diagnose bladder cancer include cystoscopy, biopsy, urine cytology, and imaging tests. These tests are minimally invasive.

What treatments are available?

If a patient is diagnosed with bladder cancer, prompt treatment is usually recommended. Some of the treatments available to patients with bladder cancer include:

  • Surgery - Surgery may be used to remove the cancerous tumor and a portion of the bladder or the entire bladder. The type of surgery recommended depends on the size and location of the tumor.
  • Immunotherapy - The purpose of immunotherapy is to stimulate the patient’s own immune system to fight the cancer.
  • Chemotherapy - Chemotherapy kills cancer cells with specific types of drugs. Doctors may recommend chemotherapy before or after surgery, depending on the situation.
  • Radiation - Doctors may recommend radiation therapy to shrink a tumor or destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery.