Bladder Cancer: What Does It Mean When You Get Diagnosed?

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the bladder—a hollow organ in the pelvis that stores urine. While it is less common than other cancers, early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes. However, bladder cancer is known for having a high recurrence rate. That’s why ongoing monitoring is just as important as treatment.

What Causes Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer often begins in the urothelial cells that line the inside of your bladder. While the exact cause may not always be known, some common risk factors include:

• Smoking tobacco
• Exposure to certain industrial chemicals
• Chronic bladder inflammation
• Family history of bladder cancer
• Previous cancer treatments (e.g., pelvic radiation or chemotherapy)

How Is Bladder Cancer Diagnosed?

To diagnose bladder cancer, healthcare professionals use several tests and procedures:

Urinalysis

A basic test that looks for blood, infection, or abnormal cells in the urine.

Urine Cytology

Doctors examine urine under a microscope to detect cancerous cells.

Cystoscopy

A thin, lighted tube is inserted into the urethra to examine the inside of the bladder. A fluorescent dye may be used to help detect tumors more clearly.

Tissue Biopsy (TURBT)

If a tumor is seen during cystoscopy, a transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) may be performed to remove and examine tissue.

Imaging Tests

Doctors may also use:

• MRI scans for detailed bladder images
• CT scans to check if the cancer has spread
• Chest X-rays to look for lung metastasis
• Bone scans if there’s concern the cancer has reached the bones

Stages of Bladder Cancer

After diagnosis, your doctor will assign a cancer stage, which helps determine your treatment options and long-term outlook.

Early-Stage (TA, T1, CIS)

• Cancer is limited to the bladder lining or just beneath it
• Has not spread to the muscular wall
• Often treated with TURBT or intravesical therapies

Stage II

• Cancer has spread to the muscular wall of the bladder

Stage III

• Cancer has extended into surrounding fatty tissue or reproductive organs

Stage IV

• Cancer has spread to distant lymph nodes, bones, lungs, or liver

Learn more about how cancer is staged and how early detection impacts outcomes.

Bladder Cancer Treatment Options

Bladder cancer treatments are based on the stage, tumor size, and overall health of the patient. Your medical team may recommend one or more of the following:

• Surgery: TURBT for early-stage tumors or full bladder removal (cystectomy) for invasive cases
• Chemotherapy: May be used before or after surgery to kill cancer cells
• Radiation therapy: Targets cancer cells with high-energy rays
• Immunotherapy: Boosts your immune system to fight cancer (e.g., BCG therapy)
• Targeted therapy: Focuses on cancer-specific proteins to block tumor growth

You can learn more about surgical specialties by contacting a BASS Medical Group Urologist.

Can Bladder Cancer Come Back?

Yes—bladder cancer has one of the highest recurrence rates among all cancers. That’s why it's critical to attend regular follow-up appointments and screenings. Your healthcare provider will help you monitor symptoms and adjust your care plan as needed.

When to Contact a Doctor

If you experience symptoms like blood in the urine, painful urination, or frequent urinary tract infections, it’s important to speak to a doctor. Bladder cancer caught early has a much better prognosis than when diagnosed at later stages.

Expert Bladder Cancer Care in the Bay Area

At BASS Medical Group, our team offers comprehensive cancer screening and treatment across Northern California. From diagnosis to post-treatment follow-up, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Visit our Cancer Center or schedule an appointment with one of our specialists today.