Genitourinary cancers are prevalent among men that affect the prostate gland, kidneys, testicles, and penis. These may or may not exhibit symptoms, but you require a prompt diagnosis and treatment to improve your quality of life.
Phoenix genitourinary cancer specialists deliver high-quality care through advanced diagnosis offering excellent treatment results
Introduction to genitourinary cancer
Genitourinary cancers refer to the abnormal multiplication and proliferation of cells within the urinary systems of both men, and women, and the reproductive system of men.
Though the exact cause of genitourinary cancer is unknown, there are certain risk factors that increase your likelihood. These include:
- Family history
- Age
- Smoking
- Unhealthy diet
- Exposure to chemicals and toxins
- Hypertension
- Certain medicines or herbal supplements
Types of genitourinary cancer
Based on the location, the types of genitourinary cancers include:
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- Prostate cancer: Your prostate gland produces a fluid (seminal fluid) that nourishes and transports sperm during ejaculation. Prostate cancers are common, and can either be slow-growing or aggressive in nature.
- Kidney cancer: These are bean-shaped organs on either side of your pelvic bone that aid in the excretory functions of waste products. Kidney tumors can impair excretory functions leading to debilitating symptoms.
- Bladder cancer: This is a muscular bag in your lower abdomen that stores urine. Cancer may develop in the internal lining of the bladder.
- Testicular cancer: This type of cancer affects your testicular lining and glands inside your scrotum that produce sperm, and male sex hormones (testosterone).
- Penile cancer: This is a rare type of cancer affecting the foreskin of the penis.
Clinical manifestations associated with genitourinary cancer
Genitourinary cancers can exhibit the following symptoms based on the type of cancer:
- Frequent urination accompanied by pain
- Blood in urine (hematuria)
- Semen shows traces of blood
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lower back pain
- Flank pain
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Abdominal or groin pain
- Skin rashes
- Slow-healing ulcers or sores
- Bleeding or discharge
Treatment options for genitourinary cancer
Your doctor can offer genitourinary cancer treatment based on the type of cancer and how advanced it is. Options include:
- Surgery
Surgical removal of cancer growths including some healthy surrounding tissues.
- Radiation therapy
This therapy involves delivering high-energy radiation waves or inserting radioactive seeds to kill cancer cells.
- Ablation
Cryoablation uses several cycles of freezing and thawing which destroy the cancer cells. Radiofrequency ablation kills cells using radio waves. Some specialists also use HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound) to kill cancer cells.
- Other treatments include:
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- Hormone therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
Summary
Genitourinary cancers are pathologies that affect the urinary tract system. Screening tests are essential to detect any pathological changes at an early stage for prompt treatment.
