About Bladder Cancer Stage 3
Changes in genes, either inherited or acquired, may play a role in the development of bladder cancer. Bladder cancer is a complex disease with various factors contributing to its development. While the exact causes of stage 3 bladder cancer are not fully understood, there are certain factors that can increase the risk.
Non-modifiable risk factors (factors a person cannot change or control) of bladder cancer include:
- Age: Bladder cancer is more common in older adults.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop bladder cancer than women.
- Genetic factors: Certain inherited gene mutations may increase the risk.
Modifiable risk factors (factors a person potentially can change or control) of bladder cancer include:
- Smoking: Cigarette smoking is the most significant modifiable risk factor for bladder cancer.
- Occupational exposure to carcinogens: Exposure to certain chemicals, such aromatic amines, found in certain industries can increase the risk.
- Chronic bladder inflammation: Long-term irritation or infections of the bladder may contribute to the development of bladder cancer.
- Medications: Certain medications including some chemotherapy may increase the chances of developing bladder cancer.
It's important to note that these risk factors do not guarantee the development of bladder cancer and individual cases may vary. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.
Symptoms of stage 3 bladder cancer include:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Frequent need to urinate
- Trouble urinating
- Weak urine stream
- Feeling the urge to urinate even if the bladder is not completely full
- Needing to urinate multiple times per night
- Less commonly, burning sensation or pain during urination
Additional symptoms may occur, such as:
- Inability to urinate (which can be a medical emergency. Contact the doctor immediately for this symptom)
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Bone pain
- Lower back pain
- Swelling in the feet
- Abdominal mass
It's important to note that these symptoms are not specific to bladder cancer and can also be caused by other conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
To diagnose and determine the stage of bladder cancer, doctors commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Medical history review: The doctor will ask about personal and family history to assess the risk for bladder cancer.
- Physical examination: A thorough physical exam may reveal signs of bladder cancer.
- Urine tests: If symptoms suggest bladder cancer, urine tests can check for blood, abnormal cells, or specific tumor markers.
- Blood tests: Blood tests may be checked to look for signs of cancer.
- Cystoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the urethra to examine the bladder for abnormalities.
- Biopsy: If an abnormal growth is found during cystoscopy, a tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for microscopic examination to confirm cancer.
Additional examinations, tests, and procedures to determine the stage of bladder cancer include:
- Imaging tests: CT, MRI, bon, or PET scans can help assess the extent of cancer spread within the bladder and to nearby tissues or organs.
- Grading and staging: The biopsy sample helps determine the grade (low or high) and invasiveness of the cancer. Imaging tests aid in staging the cancer by assessing if it has spread beyond the bladder wall.
It's important to consult with your healthcare professional regarding specific examinations, tests, and procedures for your individual situation.
The goals of treatment for stage 3 bladder cancer are to achieve a cure, slow down the progression of the cancer, and relieve symptoms. The recommended treatments may include:
- Surgery: Radical cystectomy is a common surgical procedure for stage 3 bladder cancer. It involves removing the bladder, surrounding tissues, and nearby lymph nodes. Reconstructive surgery is then performed to create a new way to store and pass urine.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor and destroy any remaining cancer cells. It can be given orally or through intravenous infusion.
- Radiation therapy: External beam radiation therapy is often used in combination with chemotherapy. It targets and kills cancer cells in a specific area of the body. Radiation can also be used for symptom relief.
- Immunotherapy: Immune checkpoint inhibitors are medications that help stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells. They are given intravenously and can help slow down the progression of the cancer.
- Supportive care: Medications and other treatments can help manage side effects and improve quality of life during treatment.
It's important to discuss these treatment options with your doctor to determine the best approach for your individual situation. Remember, each treatment option has its own benefits and risks, so it's crucial to assess them thoroughly with your healthcare professional.