Types of Bladder Cancer

Learn about the types of bladder cancer we treat.

Each patient’s bladder cancer is unique, and some types may be better suited to certain treatments than others. That’s why we start with a complete diagnostic process to help us accurately diagnosis your type and grade of bladder cancer.

What are the most common types of bladder cancer?

Bladder cancer happens when cells in the bladder stop acting like normal cells and grow too quickly. These cells can form a tumor, and if left untreated can spread to other parts of the body.

The most common type of bladder cancer is urothelial carcinoma, also called transitional cell carcinoma. Urothelial cells expand when your bladder is full and contract when your bladder is empty. These same cells line the inside of the ureters and the urethra, and tumors can form in those places as well.

Other less common types of bladder cancer include:

• Squamous cell carcinoma, which is often caused by chronic irritation of the bladder, like an infection or long-term use of a urinary catheter
• Adenocarcinoma, which begins in cells that make up mucus-secreting glands in the bladder
• Small cell carcinoma, which is a more aggressive cancer and likely to spread to other parts of the body
• Sarcoma, which often begin in the fat or muscle layers of the bladder

Learn more about some of the most frequently asked questions about bladder cancer.