The urinary system plays a crucial role in maintaining health by removing waste and excess water. It consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra, each performing a vital function. Together, these components ensure that the body efficiently eliminates toxins and maintains balance. Understanding how this system works is essential, especially when addressing urological cancers and their treatment. Urological oncologists are urologists who undergo specialized training in diagnosing and managing these complex conditions. Learn about urological cancers, including prostate cancer, its diagnosis and treatment options available and how early detection can help lead to better outcomes for patients. 

What Is Urological Cancer?

Urological cancers refer to an umbrella term for malignancies affecting organs in the urogenital system in both males and females that are responsible for producing, storing and discharging urine (kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra) and the parts of the body involved in sexual function (prostate, penis and testicles). Some of the urological cancers include:

• Prostate Cancer: The most common type of urological cancer diagnosed in men.
• Bladder Cancer: A cancer that often begins in the cells lining the bladder.
• Kidney Cancer: Also known as renal cancer. It starts in the kidneys, with renal cancer being one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide.
• Testicular Cancer: A cancer that develops in the testicles.
• Penile Cancer: A rare cancer that affects the tissues of the penis or foreskin.
• Urethral Cancer: Another rare cancer that forms in the tissues of the urethra.

It is essential to understand these various types of urological cancers, as treatment options and prognosis differ depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Is Prostate Cancer a Urologic Cancer?

Yes, prostate cancer is a urologic cancer. It is the second most common cancer among men in the United States, with 1 in 8 males diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. The prostate is located directly below the bladder and above the muscles of the pelvic floor. It is responsible for producing fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably, often very slowly. In some cases, it can be aggressive and spread to other parts of the body, particularly the bones and lymph nodes. Although there is no single test to check for prostate cancer, regular screenings, such as the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test, help detect prostate cancer early, allowing for more effective treatments. Raised PSA levels can indicate the presence of prostate cancer, although other factors, such as age, prostate size and certain medications, can affect PSA levels. 

How Is Urological Cancer Diagnosed?

Urological cancers are diagnosed through various tests, depending on the type of cancer suspected. A general list of diagnostic tests used to detect different urological cancers usually includes the following:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: The doctor will begin by asking about symptoms and the patient’s medical history, followed by a physical exam to check for abnormalities.
• Urine and Blood Tests: Urine tests help check for bacteria or blood, while blood tests like the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test can detect markers of prostate cancer.
• Imaging Tests: These include ultrasounds, CT scans, MRIs and X-rays, which provide detailed images of internal organs like the kidneys, bladder and prostate to detect tumors or abnormal growths.
• Cystoscopy: Involves inserting a thin instrument with a camera (cystoscope) through the urethra to examine the bladder lining. If irritation or damage is found, a tissue sample may be taken for analysis.
• Biopsy: Small tissue samples are taken from the affected area (e.g., prostate, kidney or penile tissue) and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

These tests help doctors identify and determine the best course of treatment for each type of urological cancer. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, the urologist will determine the cancer stage, which indicates how far the cancer has spread. Staging helps guide the choice of treatment, with early-stage cancers often treated with less invasive methods.

The treatment options for urological cancer depend on the type of cancer, its stage and the overall health of the patient. Common options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapies.

Early detection of urological cancers can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Many urological cancers, such as prostate and bladder cancer, are treatable when caught in their early stages. Regular screenings, especially for high-risk individuals, are crucial. Men over the age of 50 or those with a family history of prostate cancer should speak with their doctors about regular PSA tests.