When a doctor tells you that they want to check for bladder cancer, it means they want to perform medical tests and evaluations to investigate the possibility of cancerous cells or tumors in your bladder. Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the lining of the bladder grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor.
There are several reasons why a doctor might want to check for bladder cancer:
Presence of Symptoms: If you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of bladder cancer, such as blood in the urine (hematuria), frequent or painful urination, lower back pain, or pelvic discomfort, your doctor may want to investigate further.
Abnormal Test Results: If there are abnormalities in urine tests, such as the presence of blood cells or other concerning markers, the doctor may want to rule out or confirm bladder cancer as a potential cause.
Risk Factors: If you have certain risk factors associated with bladder cancer, such as a history of smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, family history of bladder cancer, or chronic bladder infections, the doctor may want to monitor you more closely or perform additional tests.
Routine Screening: In some cases, especially for individuals with a history of bladder cancer or certain occupational exposures, routine screening may be recommended to detect any early signs of cancer recurrence or new cancers.
The process of checking for bladder cancer typically involves a combination of the following:
Medical History and Physical Examination: The doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any risk factors. They will also perform a physical examination.
Urine Tests: Urine samples may be analyzed for the presence of blood, cancer cells, or other abnormalities.
Imaging Tests: Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be conducted to visualize the bladder and surrounding structures.
Cystoscopy: This is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera (cystoscope) is inserted into the urethra and up into the bladder. This allows the doctor to directly examine the bladder lining and take biopsies if necessary.
Biopsy: If suspicious areas are identified during cystoscopy or other tests, the doctor may take a tissue sample (biopsy) for examination under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present.
It's essential to undergo these tests if your doctor recommends them, as early detection of bladder cancer can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes. However, keep in mind that these tests are used to determine the presence or absence of bladder cancer and other potential conditions, and a definitive diagnosis can only be made based on the results of these evaluations.