What is ureteric cancer?

Ureteric cancer, also known as cancer of the ureter, is a rare type of cancer that develops in the cells lining the ureter, (the tube that is responsible for carrying the urine from your kidney to the bladder.) It can occur at any age, but it is more common in older men than women. As per the best oncologist in Kolkata, the most common type of ureteric cancer is transitional cell carcinoma, which starts in the cells lining the ureter and can spread to other parts of the body, if left untreated.

What are the symptoms of ureteric cancer?

The symptoms of ureteric cancer can be similar to those of other urinary tract disorders, so it is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. However, some of the common symptoms of ureteric cancer include the following:

1. Blood in the urine
2. Pain or discomfort in your lower back or side
3. Frequent urination
4. Difficulty urinating
5. Loss of appetite
6. Fatigue

Causes of ureteric cancer

According to a cancer doctor in Kolkata, some of the common risk factors of ureteric cancer include:

1. Smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for ureteric cancer. The carcinogens in cigarette smoke can damage the lining of the ureter and increase the risk of cancer.

2. Age: Ureteric cancer is more common in people over the age of 50.

3. Gender: Men are more likely to develop ureteric cancer than women.

4. Exposure to certain chemicals: Exposure to chemicals such as arsenic, cadmium, and benzidine can increase the risk of ureteric cancer.

5. Chronic inflammation of the urinary tract: Long-term irritation or inflammation of the urinary tract can increase the risk of developing ureteric cancer.

6. History of bladder cancer: People who have had bladder cancer in the past may be at an increased risk of developing ureteric cancer.

7. Family history: A family history of ureteric cancer or other types of urinary tract cancer may increase the risk of developing this type of cancer.

Treatments of ureteric cancer

The treatment of ureteric cancer depends on the stage of cancer and may include one or a combination of the following treatments, says a medical oncologist in Kolkata.

1. Chemotherapy: It involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery to shrink the tumour or to kill any remaining cancer cells.

2. Radiation therapy: It uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery or in combination with chemotherapy.

3. Immunotherapy: It is a type of treatment that uses your body’s immune system to fight against cancer. It may be used in combination with other treatments.

4. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific molecules or proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

5. Surgery: It is a treatment for ureteric cancer. The surgeon may remove the affected ureter and the adjacent kidney or bladder, depending on the stage of cancer.