About Bladder Cancer

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Types of Bladder Cancer

There are three types of bladder cancer that begin in cells in the lining of the bladder. These cancers are named for the type of cells that become malignant (cancerous):

Transitional cell carcinoma: Cancer that begins in cells in the innermost tissue layer of the bladder. These cells are able to stretch when the bladder is full and shrink when it is emptied. Most bladder cancers begin in transitional cells.
Squamous cell carcinoma: Cancer that begins in squamous cells, which are thin, flat cells that may form in the bladder after long-term infection or irritation.
Adenocarcinoma: Cancer that begins in glandular (secretory) cells that may form in the bladder after long-term irritation and inflammation.

Cancer that is confined to the lining of the bladder is called superficial bladder cancer. Cancer that begins in the transitional cells may spread through the lining of the bladder and invade the muscle wall of the bladder or spread to nearby organs and lymph nodes; this is called invasive bladder cancer.

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Understanding Bladder Cancer

Our bladder cancer doctors understand that you’re facing a lot of decisions as you learn about your diagnosis and the treatment plan that is recommended for you. Whether you’ve already met with an oncologist or you're preparing for your first visit, learn more about bladder cancer to become familiar with terms you may hear as you learn about the treatments available to you.

If bladder cancer is suspected, several tests will be performed to confirm a diagnosis.

Detection & Diagnosis

The stage of your bladder cancer plays a role in determining the best treatment plan.

About Staging

Treating Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer treatment may involve using a combination of treatments. Surgery is often used as the primary treatment, either by itself or combined with other methods.

Early-stage tumors can be removed with surgery, but new cancers may form in other parts of the bladder over time. To prevent this, some patients consider removing the entire bladder (radical cystectomy), though this type of surgery can have major side effects. Otherwise, alternative therapies may be used to reduce the chance of new cancers developing.

Learn more about treatment options for you based on your cancer's stage.

Treatment Options by Stage

Bladder Cancer Doctors in the Willamette Valley and the Oregon Coast

Corvallis

Jonathan Gross, MD

Eugene

Jonathan Gross, MD

Lincoln City

Jonathan Gross, MD

Newport

Jonathan Gross, MD

Springfield

James E. Butrynski, MD

Bladder Cancer Care at Willamette Valley

Our cancer care team knows it’s essential that you get useful information to choose the best bladder cancer treatment for you. When you’re ready, click the button to make an appointment with one of our bladder cancer specialists at a location convenient to you in Albany, Corvallis, Eugene, Florence, Lincoln City, and Newport, Oregon.