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About Ureteral Cancer
After the kidney collects urine in the pelvis, the ureter has the function of carrying the urine to the bladder. Ureter cancers start in one of the tubes that connect the kidney to the bladder. Cancer can grow in the urine collection system, but it is much more uncommon.
Most cancers of the ureter are similar to the cancers of the bladder, called transitional cell carcinomas (cancer in the lining of the ureter). Squamous cell carcinoma may also develop in patients with chronic infection or stones (cancer that begins in squamous cells, the thin, flat cells found in the tissue that forms the lining of the ureter).
Ureteral cancer affects approximately 2,400 people annually, and is much more common in men than in women. Men above the age of 65 are at higher risk. Although the causes of ureteral cancer are not completely known, long-term irritation of the kidney from harmful substances removed in the urine may be a factor. This irritation may be caused by analgesic nephropathy (damage to one or both kidneys caused by overexposure to mixtures of medications, especially over-the-counter pain remedies, or analgesics), smoking, or exposure to aniline dyes and chemicals used in the manufacturing of leather goods, textiles, plastics and rubber. Also, patients with a prior history of bladder cancer may also be at risk for Ureteral Cancer.
Ureteral Cancer Symptoms include:
- Burning, pain, or discomfort with urination
- Bloody Urine
- Dark, rust-colored, or brown urine
- Fatigue
- Flank pain
- Frequent need to urinate at night
- Unintentional weight loss
- Urinary frequency or urgency
- Urinary hesitancy
Prevention of Ureteral Cancer includes avoiding kidney-poisoning substances (wear protective equipment if necessary). Also, avoid smoking.
Treatment of Ureteral Cancer depends of course on the size, stage, and location of the lesion. The most common treatment is the removal of the kidney and ureter, however there are procedure options to save kidney function. In some cases, it is even possible to remove the ureter without removing the kidney.
For more information about Ureteral Cancer, its diagnosis and treatment or advice on complementary or alternative methods of care, please don't hesitate to contact Dr. Scherr.