logo
(318) 473-2169

Our Services

Bladder Cancer

Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer isn’t a rare occurrence. It’s the sixth most common cancer in the United States. At Alexandria Urology Associates, with two offices in Alexandria and Oakdale, Louisiana, James Richey, MD, and Lance Templeton, MD, provide expert evaluation and treatment if you suspect you have this type of cancer.

What should I know about bladder cancer?

Your bladder is a hollow organ that stores urine before you eliminate it from the body. The kidneys discharge urine into the bladder through tubes called ureters and out of the bladder through the urethra. The lining of the bladder is where 90% of bladder cancers develop in a type known as transitional cell carcinoma.
The reason you develop bladder cancer isn’t always clear. Factors that increase your risk include:
  • Family history
  • Inherited gene mutations (hereditary cancer syndrome)
  • Chronic bladder infections
  • Smoking
  • Long-term use of catheters
Older adults are at greater risk of developing bladder cancer, with more than 92% of all new cases being diagnosed in people older than 55.
In addition to the common transitional cell carcinoma that develops in the urothelium cells of the bladder’s lining, other bladder cancers include:
  • Flat carcinoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma
  • Papillary carcinoma
  • Adenocarcinoma
  • Sarcoma
These versions are rather rare. Dr. Richey and Dr. Templeton have expertise in treating all types of bladder cancer, however.
Bladder cancer doesn’t always have symptoms in its earliest stages. With time, however, you can develop:
  • Frequent and painful urination
  • Blood in the urine
  • Inability to urinate
  • Urge to urinate with a less-than-full bladder
As bladder cancer advances, you can also develop back pain and swelling in the feet. If the doctors suspect bladder cancer, you will undergo screenings to confirm a diagnosis. These include cystoscopy, blood and urine tests, biopsy, MRI, X-ray, ultrasound, and pyelogram.
When the doctors diagnose you with bladder cancer, surgical intervention is usually required. Dr. Richey and Dr. Templeton remove all or part of the bladder to eliminate the cancerous tissue and prevent it from metastasizing. Immunotherapy is another treatment available for some forms of bladder cancer. Talk to the doctors about whether this option is appropriate for you.

Take Control of Your Urologic Health Today

Trust the Experts at Alexandria Urology Associates for Compassionate, Cutting-Edge Care Whether you’re facing a common condition or a complex diagnosis, our experienced team is here to provide personalized treatment and support.
318 473 2169

Accessibility Toolbar