Transitional cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that arises from the cells lining certain organs and structures of the body. These cells, known as transitional cells, are found primarily in the urinary system, including the lining of the bladder, ureters, and renal pelvis. Transitional cell carcinoma can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the lining of the urethra, urethra, and parts of the genital system.
This type of cancer typically develops due to changes or abnormalities in the DNA of transitional cells, leading to uncontrolled and abnormal cell growth. As the cells multiply and accumulate, they form tumor masses that can invade nearby tissues and spread to other organs in the body, a process known as metastasis.
The most common symptom of transitional cell carcinoma is blood in the urine, which may be intermittent and accompanied by pain or discomfort during urination. Other symptoms may include frequent urination, urgency to urinate, pelvic pain, and lower back pain. However, in some cases, the cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage.
Diagnosis of transitional cell carcinoma typically involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, imaging tests (such as ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging), and laboratory tests of urine and blood samples. Treatment options for transitional cell carcinoma may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted drug therapy, depending on the stage and extent of the cancer. The prognosis and outcome vary depending on factors such as the stage of cancer at diagnosis, overall health of the individual, and response to treatment.
