The bladder is a muscular organ that stores urine and facilitates its excretion from the body. It receives urine from the kidneys and, when appropriate, expels it through the urinary tract. Normally, the bladder muscles and nervous system work together to regulate urine storage and elimination.
Bladder health is crucial for overall body function. Tumors or other structural problems in the bladder can make urination difficult and may lead to serious health issues.
A bladder tumor is a type of cancer that begins on the inner surface of the bladder and grows through uncontrolled cell proliferation. Bladder tumors are classified as invasive and non-invasive:
Bladder tumors usually present symptoms through the urinary tract, making early diagnosis critical for both quality of life and treatment success.
Types of Bladder Tumors
Risk factors include smoking, exposure to chemicals, chronic urinary tract infections, and advanced age.
The symptoms of bladder tumors vary depending on the size, location, and whether the tumor is invasive. The most common symptoms include:
Frequent Urination
A bladder tumor can grow on the inner surface of the bladder, disrupting its normal function. This may lead to frequent urination, especially at night, which can significantly affect the patient’s quality of life.
Blood in the Urine
Hematuria, or the presence of blood in the urine, is the most common symptom of a bladder tumor. The blood is usually bright red and can be noticed on toilet paper or in the urine container. Sometimes, the bleeding is microscopic and detected only through routine urine tests.
Pain and Burning Sensation
A bladder tumor can cause inflammation and sensitivity in the bladder lining, resulting in a burning, stinging, or sharp pain during urination.
Difficulty Urinating
If the tumor affects bladder function, urination may become difficult, painful, or interrupted. This is especially noticeable when the tumor is near the bladder outlet.
Changes in Urine Odor
Bladder tumors can alter the color, concentration, and smell of urine. Sudden and significant changes, particularly foul odor or cloudiness, should be carefully evaluated.
If any of these symptoms are present, it is essential to consult a specialist without delay. Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment and better outcomes.
Various diagnostic methods are used for patients suspected of having a bladder tumor:
Physical Examination and Medical History
The doctor evaluates the patient’s complaints and risk factors, particularly asking about blood in the urine, frequent urination, and pain.
Urine Tests
Urinalysis and urine cytology help detect the presence of blood or cancer cells.
Imaging Methods
Ultrasound: Helps visualize the bladder and surrounding masses.
Computed Tomography (CT): Shows the size and spread of the tumor.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Allows detailed assessment of the tumor’s spread into surrounding tissues.
Cystoscopy
A cystoscopy is performed to directly examine the inside of the bladder. This procedure determines the tumor’s location, size, and shape, and a biopsy can be taken if necessary.
Early diagnosis provides a significant advantage for both preoperative and postoperative treatment planning.
Bladder tumor surgery varies depending on the type, size, and spread of the tumor. The main surgical methods are:
Transurethral Resection (TUR)
The tumor is removed from inside the bladder using specialized instruments.
It is a minimally invasive method, and patients are usually discharged quickly.
Preferred for small and non-invasive tumors.
Partial Cystectomy
The tumor-containing portion of the bladder is removed, preserving the rest of the bladder.
Suitable if the tumor is localized and has not spread to surrounding tissues.
The patient’s urinary functions are generally maintained.
Radical Cystectomy
The entire bladder is removed, and an alternative urinary diversion is created.
Applied in advanced or invasive tumors.
Alternative methods include a stoma using the intestine or a neobladder reconstruction.
The type of surgery is determined based on the patient’s overall health, age, comorbidities, and the tumor’s characteristics.
Before bladder tumor surgery, several preparations are carried out:
The preparation process enhances the safety and success of the surgery.
The recovery period after surgery varies depending on the type of procedure and the patient’s condition:
During the recovery process:
As with any surgical procedure, some complications may occur after bladder tumor surgery:
When surgeries are performed by experienced specialists, these complications are rare and are generally manageable.
After bladder tumor treatment, regular follow-up is crucial:
Long-term follow-up reduces the risk of tumor recurrence and improves overall quality of life.
At A Life Health Group:
If you are experiencing symptoms of a bladder tumor or want information about surgical options, you can contact A Life Health Group.
Last Updated: 6 Kasım 2025 14:05
Publish Date: 25 Nisan 2024 10:19
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