Diagnosing Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Ureter and Renal Pelvis
If a person has possible transitional cell carcinoma symptoms, the doctor will probably need to perform a physical exam, ask about the patient's personal and family medical history, and recommend additional tests and procedures that examine the kidneys and ureters.
Exams and tests that are used to make a transitional cell carcinoma diagnosis may include:
- Urine tests
- Blood tests
- Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)
- Computed tomography scan
- Ultrasound
- Biopsy
- Surgery.
Stages of Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Ureter and Renal Pelvis
If a transitional cell carcinoma diagnosis is made, the doctor will need to determine the
transitional cell carcinoma stage, or extent, of the disease in order to plan the best
transitional cell carcinoma treatment. Transitional cell carcinoma staging is an attempt to find out the size of the tumor, whether the disease has spread, and if so, to what parts of the body.
The following stages are used to describe transitional cell carcinoma of the ureter and renal pelvis:
- Stage 0 (carcinoma in situ)
- Stage I
- Stage II
- Stage III
- Stage IV
- Recurrent.
Transitional cell carcinoma of the ureter and renal pelvis is also described as localized, regional, or metastatic.
Treatment for Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Ureter and Renal Pelvis
Transitional cell carcinoma treatment options vary based on:
- The stage and grade of the tumor
- Where the tumor is located
- Whether the patient's other kidney is healthy
- Whether the cancer has recurred.
In general, transitional cell carcinoma treatment options can include surgery. Patients should work with their doctor to develop a treatment plan that meets their medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate transitional cell carcinoma treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, the family, and the healthcare team.
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