Urethral cancer

Urethral cancer is a rare form of cancer that occurs in the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body. It is more common in women than in men and can occur at any age, but it is most often diagnosed in people aged 60 and older.

Types

There are three main types of urethral cancer: squamous cell carcinoma, transitional cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma. Each type is named for the kind of cells that become cancerous.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of urethral cancer include blood in the urine, frequent urination, and pain during urination. Other symptoms may include a lump or growth in the urethra or the area surrounding it, and persistent urinary tract infections.

Diagnosis

Urethral cancer is diagnosed through a series of tests, including a physical exam, urine tests, and imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. A biopsy may also be performed, in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the urethra and examined under a microscope for signs of cancer.

Treatment

Treatment for urethral cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. In some cases, a urethrectomy, or removal of the urethra, may be necessary.

Prognosis

The prognosis for urethral cancer varies depending on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis.

See also

• Bladder cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Urinary tract infection

Urethral cancer Resources
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