Ureter Cancer: General Information
Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2009/04/05 - Updated: 2023/02/01
Topic: Cancer and Tumors - Publications List
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main
Synopsis: Ureter Cancer forms in transitional cells in the lining of the bladder ureter or renal pelvis.
• Ureter Cancer risk factors can include prolonged misuse of certain pain medications, smoking cigarettes, and exposure to certain dyes and chemicals used in making leather goods, textiles, plastics, and rubber.
• Ureter cancer affects men more often than women and is more common in people older than 65.
Introduction
Ureter Cancer Alternate Names: Metastatic Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Ureter (Stage IV), Squamous Cell Cancer of the Ureter, Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Ureter, Adenocarcinoma of the Ureter, Ureter Carcinoma.
The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) has included Ureter Cancer - with distant metastases or inoperable, unresectable or recurrent as a Compassionate Allowance to expedite a disability claim.
Main Item
Ureter Cancer forms in transitional cells in the lining of the bladder, ureter, or renal pelvis. Risk factors can include prolonged misuse of certain pain medications, smoking cigarettes, and exposure to certain dyes and chemicals used in making leather goods, textiles, plastics, and rubber.
Transitional cells can change shape and stretch without breaking apart. Misuse of certain pain medications can affect the risk of developing transitional cell cancer of the renal pelvis or ureter.
Symptoms may include blood in the urine, persistent back pain, extreme fatigue, unintentional weight loss, and painful or frequent urination. The following tests may be used to diagnose the disease:
- Physical exam and history
- Urinalysis
- Ureteroscopy
- Urine cytology
- Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)
- CT scan and/or ultrasound
If the cancer is inoperable or unresectable, treatment with radiation and chemotherapy may be utilized for palliation, but the prognosis is poor.
Ureter cancer affects men more often than women and is more common in people older than 65. The 5-year survival rate is 5% or less.