Kidney & Ureteral Cancer: Transitional Cell Carcinoma

What is Kidney

Kidney is a bean-shaped organ in the abdomen. Kidneys filter blood and remove toxins and waste products from the body. Kidney failure can occur when the kidneys are not able to function properly. A kidney transplant is the only treatment for kidney failure. Kidney donors can be living or deceased.

Kidney transplant is a surgery to place a donor kidney into a person who has kidney failure. The transplanted kidney takes over the work of the two failed kidneys.

A person with a transplanted kidney can lead a normal life with few dietary restrictions and no need for dialysis.

What is Transitional Cell Carcinoma

Transitional cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that begins in the cells that line the urinary tract or the ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidney to the bladder).

It can also occur in the renal pelvis (the part of the kidney where urine collects before it moves down the ureters). Transitional cell carcinoma is more common in men than in women.

The risk factors for this type of cancer include smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and a history of bladder infections. Treatment options for transitional cell carcinoma include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

How do I know if I have Transitional Cell Cancer

Transitional cell cancer, also called urothelial cancer, is a type of cancer that forms in the lining of the urinary system. This includes the bladder, ureters, and renal pelvis. Transitional cell cancer is most common in men over the age of 60. However, it can occur at any age.

The exact cause of transitional cell cancer is unknown. However, there are several risk factors that may increase your risk of developing this type of cancer. These include smoking, a history of bladder infections, and exposure to certain chemicals.

Symptoms of transitional cell cancer can include blood in the urine, pain during urination, and frequent urination. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis. Transitional cell cancer is usually treated with surgery or chemotherapy. In some cases, a combination of both treatments may be used.

With early diagnosis and treatment, most people with transitional cell cancer can expect to make a full recovery.

How is Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Kidney treated?

While there are several different types of kidney cancer, transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is the most common. In general, treatment for kidney cancer begins with surgery to remove the tumor. However, depending on the size and stage of the tumor, additional treatment may be necessary.

For instance, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be used to kill any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, immunotherapy may also be recommended. Clinical trials are ongoing to determine the best possible treatments for TCC.

However, with early detection and timely treatment, kidney cancer can be highly treatable. As a result, it is important to be aware of the symptoms and to see a doctor if anything seems unusual.

What happens if I am diagnosed with Transitional Cell Cancer?

If you’re diagnosed with transitional cell cancer, your treatment will depend on the stage of your cancer. If it’s caught early, surgery may be all that’s needed. But if it has spread, you may need chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or a combination of both. You and your doctor will develop a plan that’s right for you.

In some cases, clinical trials may be an option. Clinical trials are research studies that test new ways to treat cancer. They can offer access to promising new therapies, and they may help improve the quality of life for people with cancer.

If you’re interested in a clinical trial, talk to your doctor about your options. No matter what treatment plan you and your doctor choose, we’re here to support you every step of the way.