Transitional cell carcinoma is the common type of cancer that affects the renal pelvis or the ureter. The kidney removes the waste substances from the body which are collected as urine in the bladder. The ureter is the two tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. The renal pelvis is the top part of the ureter that is located in the kidney. This is a common type of cancer that develops in the transitional cell that line the renal pelvis and the ureter. The transitional cell carcinoma has the potential to invade and affect other parts of the body. The stages of this cancer stage start from 0 to 4 that is based on the location of cancer and where it has spread. This type of cancer can be cured if detected early but the prognosis is generally based on the stage of cancer, the health of the kidney and the recurrence.
Causes
The exact cause of transitional cell carcinoma has not been identified. In some cases, the genetic factors have been established as the cause. However, some of the risk factors of developing this condition includes smoking, exposure to materials such as asphalt, certain medications, various medical conditions such as diabetes and excessive alcohol intake. Te additional contributing factor can include the working environment with exposure to certain chemicals such as pesticides, industrial dyes, plastics and aluminium.
Symptoms
The symptoms associated with this type of cancer are similar to other forms of kidney cancer. In the initial stage of this cancer, the symptoms may not be apparent and can develop as the cancerous growth progress. Some of the common symptoms include the presence of blood in the urine, pain in the back, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue and pain when urinating.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis may initially include a physical examination to evaluate the presence of apparent signs such as the unusual lumps, the individual’s medical history, previous treatment and health habit. In addition, the urineanalysis may be required to determine the presence of blood, sugar, abnormal cells or protein in the urine. An ureteroscopy involves the insertion of the tube-like instrument to examine the ureter and renal pelvis for any abnormalities. The other diagnostic tests can include CT scan, MRI scan and ultrasound to observe the inside of the body. In addition, a biopsy may be required to confirm cancer by the removal of a small section of the affected area that is observed under the microscope.
Treatment
The treatment is based on the health of the individual, stage of cancer and how fast it is growing. The treatment may involve the surgical removal of the affected part or the entire kidney. Depending on the stage of cancer, the patient may require chemotherapy or radiation therapy after the surgery. Chemotherapy involves the administration of various medications to prevent the recurrence and to destroy cancerous cell.
References
https://www.cancer.gov/types/kidney/patient/transitional-cell-treatment-pdq#section/_46
