Bladder cancer

Should you be diagnosed with bladder cancer, we're dedicated to providing you with the highest level of bespoke treatment and care, led by our team of oncology experts.

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Types of bladder cancer

Transitional cell bladder cancer

This is the most common type of bladder cancer and is also known as urothelial bladder cancer. It starts in the cells in the bladder lining and may be non-invasive or invasive.

Squamous cell bladder cancer

Squamous cell cancer is a rarer type of bladder cancer. A very small percentage of bladder cancers in the UK are squamous cell cancers. It is usually invasive.

Adenocarcinoma

A very rare type of bladder cancer, which is usually invasive. A very small percentage of people diagnosed with bladder cancer have it.

Sarcomas

A very rare type of cancer that starts in the bladder muscle or other structural tissues rather than the bladder lining. These are called sarcomas.

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Small cell cancer of the bladder

This is a very rare type of bladder cancer. Treatment may involve chemotherapy and radiation or chemotherapy and surgery.

Secondary bladder cancer

This is when cancer that has started somewhere else in the body has spread to the bladder. For example, it may have spread from ovary, cervix, womb, prostate or rectum cancer. This is not very common.

Need to know

  • blood in your urine (haematuria)
  • pain; usually a burning sensation when you pass urine
  • pain in the lower back or tummy
  • urinating frequently

These symptoms can often be related to a number of non-cancerous conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms it is important to see your GP so that a referral and diagnosis can be made as quickly as possible.

There are various tests that can be carried out to diagnose bladder cancer. These include: - Cystoscopy - a procedure used to look inside the urethra and bladder - CT or MRI scan If you are diagnosed with bladder cancer you will have immediate access to world-class cancer specialists and expert treatment and care.

Your consultant will talk you through your diagnosis and treatment options in detail, helping you to make an informed decision about your care. - Surgery - Open and non-invasive surgery - Transurethral resection (TURBT) - Cystectomy - Chemotherapy - Radiotherapy At HCA Healthcare UK you will be looked after by a multidisciplinary team, including expert consultants, clinical nurse specialists and supportive therapists , this includes psychologists who can support your emotional well-being.

Our locations

The Harley Street Clinic

The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
University College Hospital Private Care

University College Hospital Private Care

Grafton Way Building, 1 Grafton Way WC1E 6AG London
Private Care at Guy's

Private Care at Guy's

London Bridge Hospital Private Care at Guy's SE1 9RT London

Patient stories

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.