Urethral Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of urethral cancer?

The symptoms of urethral cancer can vary depending on the tumor’s location and stage. Common symptoms include:

Blood in Urine: Hematuria or blood in the urine is a common sign of urethral cancer.
Painful Urination: Discomfort or pain during urination, often described as burning or stinging.
Frequent Urination: Increased frequency of urination or urgency to urinate.
Difficulty Urinating: Trouble starting or maintaining a steady urine stream.
Urethral Discharge: Unusual discharge from the urethra, which may be blood-stained or pus-like.
Pelvic Pain: Pain in the pelvic region or lower abdomen.
Swelling: Swelling or a lump in the urethral area.
Incontinence: Loss of control over urination or leakage of urine.
Pain During Intercourse: Discomfort or pain during sexual activity, especially if the cancer is advanced.

Symptoms may vary and can be similar to those of other conditions affecting the urinary tract, so it is essential to seek medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

What are the causes of urethral cancer?

The causes of urethral cancer are not fully understood, but several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing this condition. These include:

Chronic Irritation or Inflammation: Persistent irritation or inflammation of the urethra from conditions such as chronic urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted infections.
Genetic Factors: A family history of cancer, particularly cancers of the urinary system (bladder cancer) or reproductive organs (ovarian cancer), may increase susceptibility.
Smoking: Tobacco use is a well-established risk factor for various cancers, including urethral cancer. So quit smoking.
Sexual History: A history of multiple sexual partners or sexually transmitted infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), may be linked to an increased risk.
Age and Gender: Urethral cancer is more common in older adults and is more frequently observed in men than women.
Previous Cancer Treatments: Radiation therapy or chemotherapy for other cancers may increase the risk of developing urethral cancer later.
Urethral Trauma: Injury or trauma to the urethra may be a risk factor, particularly if it leads to chronic irritation or scarring.

These factors can contribute to the development of urethral cancer, but having one or more risk factors does not guarantee that someone will develop the condition.

What is the treatment for urethral cancer?

The treatment for urethral cancer depends on several factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health. Common treatment options include:

Surgery: The primary treatment for urethral cancer is often surgical. This may involve:
TURBT (Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor): For early-stage tumors, the tumor is removed through the urethra using a cystoscope.
Partial Urethrectomy: Removal of the affected portion of the urethra.
Radical Urethrectomy: Complete removal of the urethra, and sometimes surrounding tissues, such as the bladder or prostate, depending on the extent of the cancer.
Radiation Therapy: This may be used in conjunction with surgery or as a primary treatment in cases where surgery is not feasible. It uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Systemic chemotherapy may be recommended if the cancer has spread beyond the urethra. It involves the use of drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells throughout the body.
Chemoradiotherapy: A combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used, especially for advanced cases.
Immunotherapy: This treatment uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It may be considered in specific cases, depending on the tumor characteristics.
Palliative Care: For advanced or metastatic urethral cancer, treatment may focus on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, rather than attempting to cure the disease.

The choice of treatment is personalized and typically involves a multidisciplinary team, including urologists, oncologists, and other specialists, to determine the best approach based on the individual’s condition.

What is the survival rate for urethral cancer?

The survival rate for urethral cancer depends on several factors, including the stage at diagnosis, the location and size of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health. Urethral cancer is rare, and survival rates can vary:

General 5-Year Survival Rates:

Localized (Early-Stage): When the cancer is confined to the urethra and has not spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, the 5-year survival rate is around 60% to 80%.
Regional (Spread to Nearby Tissues or Lymph Nodes): If the cancer has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, the 5-year survival rate drops to about 30% to 50%.
Distant (Metastatic): When urethral cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, the 5-year survival rate is significantly lower, typically less than 15%.

Factors Influencing Survival:

Tumor Location: Urethral cancer can develop in different parts of the urethra, and survival rates can vary depending on whether the cancer is in the anterior or posterior urethra.
Histology: The type of cells involved (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma, transitional cell carcinoma) can affect prognosis.
Treatment Response: Early detection and effective treatment, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, can improve outcomes.

These survival rates are estimates and can vary based on individual circumstances. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving the prognosis of urethral cancer.