Bladder Cancer

The Urologic Oncology Program offers diagnosis and treatment for those with bladder cancer.  If you have been diagnosed, or suspect you have bladder cancer, patients, please call 734-647-8902.

Healthcare professionals, please contact our M-LINE service: 800-962-3555.

The most common symptoms of bladder cancer include:

• Blood in the urine
• Pain during urination

Bladder cancer can also cause pain in the lower back or pelvis.

Symptom Analysis & Physical Evaluation

Unlike some other cancers, there is no routine screening test for bladder cancer. Most patient with bladder cancer present with one or more of the following symptoms:

• Blood in the urine (microscopic or visible)
• Urinary frequency or urgency
• Bladder pain
• Unexplained weight loss

These symptoms may resemble urinary tract infections, prostate enlargement in men, or common urinary symptoms in women. As a result, bladder cancer may initially be treated as a more common condition, which can delay diagnosis. Blood in the urine is never normal and should not persist after treatment for common causes such as infection or kidney stones. 

If symptoms persist or recur—especially visible blood in the urine—evaluation by a urologic specialist is essential.

Effectively treatment of bladder cancer requires careful evaluation to identify the location, size, and depth of bladder tumors. Diagnosis begins with a physical examination and discussion of symptoms, followed by urine testing such as cytology to detect cancer cells.

Imaging studies, direct visualization of the bladder, and biopsies are used to determine whether the cancer is non–muscle invasive or muscle-invasive, which plays a major role in treatment decisions.

Comprehensive Imaging & Diagnostic Tests

Diagnostic testing may include:

• Cytology: A urine test to detect cancer cells, though results may be inconclusive
• Imaging: CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to evaluate the bladder and upper urinary tract(CT is most commonly used)
• Cystoscopy: A flexible lighted scope is used to examine the bladder lining. If a tumor or abnormal area is found, a procedure under anesthesia may be scheduled to remove tissue, confirm the diagnosis, and determine tumor depth.

For patients already diagnosed with bladder cancer, cystoscopy is also used for surveillance.

Advanced Diagnostics with Blue Light Flexible Cystoscopy

Blue light cystoscopy is an advanced technique used for both diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer. A special medication (Cysview®) is absorbed by cancer cells, causing them to glow blue under specific light. This can improve detection of small or hard-to-see tumors, particularly in non–muscle invasive bladder cancer, and may reduce the risk of recurrence.

Treatment for bladder cancer depends on whether the disease is non–muscle invasive or muscle-invasive, as well as tumor grade, size, and patient health.

Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer

Non–muscle invasive bladder cancer is often treated with removal of tumors through cystoscopy, sometimes followed by medication placed directly into the bladder (intravesical therapy).Ongoing surveillance is required due to the risk of recurrence.

Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer typically requires more intensive treatment. Options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery to remove the bladder (cystectomy), or a combination of these approaches. Treatment plans are individualized to maximize cancer control and quality of life.

Innovators in Surgical Care

Surgical treatment options vary based on disease stage. While cystectomy is often required for muscle-invasive bladder cancer, surgeons at the Rogel Cancer Center work closely with patients to explore urinary diversion options when bladder removal is necessary. Our surgeons perform a high volume of bladder cancer surgeries each year, including minimally invasive approaches and bladder reconstruction procedures such as neobladder creation.

Bladder Cancer Clinical Trial Opportunities

Patients at the Rogel Cancer Center may be eligible for clinical trials evaluating new surgical techniques, medications, and treatment combinations for both non–muscle invasive and muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Clinical trial participation is considered as part of personalized care planning.