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Bladder Cancer Specialist

S. Adam Ramin, MD

Urologist & Urological Oncologist located in Century City, Los Angeles, CA

Bladder cancer is relatively common. Treatment is often complex and requires a specialist’s knowledge and training. S. Adam Ramin, MD, is a board-certified urologist and surgeon who is well-known for his surgical skill and expertise in treating bladder cancer. Dr. Ramin is also greatly appreciated for his patient-first approach to health care and the welcoming environment offered at his office in the Century City neighborhood of Los Angeles. For expert urological care, schedule a visit with Dr. Ramin today. Call the office or book your appointment online.

Bladder Cancer Q & A

How common is bladder cancer?

Bladder cancer is one of the more common types of cancers in the United States. It can occur at any age but is most often found in adults over 40 and occurs more frequently in men than women. There are about 68,000 new cases of bladder cancer reported annually.

Is there more than one type of bladder cancer?

There are several types of bladder cancer, which are categorized according to the cells they arise from.

Urothelial carcinoma is the most common type of bladder cancer in the US. It occurs in the cells lining your bladder. Because these same cells line the small tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder (ureters) and from the bladder out of the body (urethra), tumors can occur in these areas as well.

Papillary carcinomas are a subtype of urothelial carcinoma. This cancer grows in slender, finger-like projections that tend to grow toward the hollow center of the bladder without invading deeper into the bladder wall.

Flat carcinomas, also a subtype of urothelial carcinoma, do not grow toward the hollow portion of the bladder

Other types of bladder cancer include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, both of which are rare in the US. Squamous cell carcinoma is often associated with long-term bladder irritation due to infection or catheter use. Adenocarcinoma starts in the mucus-secreting glands in the bladder.

What are the symptoms of bladder cancer?

The most common symptoms of bladder cancer include:

  • Blood in the urine
  • Urinary urgency
  • Pain in the bladder area
  • Increased frequency of urination
  • Burning discomfort with urination

Many of these symptoms are common in other urinary conditions, such as urinary tract infections and other problems. It’s important, therefore, to seek a comprehensive evaluation by a skilled urologist, especially when your symptoms don’t resolve despite treatment with antibiotics or other therapies.

What is the treatment for bladder cancer?

Bladder cancer treatment is based on the type of bladder cancer you have, the extent or stage of cancer, and your overall health. Your treatment may include a combination of therapies, such as radiation or chemotherapy combined with surgery to remove the tumor itself. Sometimes a cystectomy is performed, which is surgery to remove all or part of the bladder.

For exceptional urological care, schedule a visit with Dr. Ramin today by calling the office or booking your appointment online.