What is urethral cancer?

Urethral cancer is an uncommon type of cancer that impacts the urethra, the tube responsible for conveying urine from the bladder to the external part of the body. It develops when abnormal cells within the urethra proliferate and give rise to a tumour. While urethral cancer predominantly affects women, it can also manifest in men.

What are the symptoms of urethral cancer?

The symptoms of urethral cancer can differ based on the stage and location of the cancer. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Blood in the urine: Haematuria, which refers to the presence of blood in the urine, stands as one of the prevalent symptoms. The urine may exhibit a pink, red, or rusty brown colouration.
• Frequent urination: Patients may experience an increased need to urinate, often accompanied by a sense of urgency.
• Painful urination: Dysuria, or pain during urination, can occur due to the presence of a tumour in the urethra.
• Thin urine stream: Urethral cancer can cause a narrowing of the urethra, resulting in a weak or thin urine stream.
• Lump or mass: A visible or palpable lump or mass in the urethral area may indicate the presence of a tumour.

What are the causes of urethral cancer?

The exact cause of urethral cancer is unknown. However, certain factors may increase the risk of developing this condition:

• Age and gender: Urethral cancer occurs more frequently in women over the age of 60.
• Chronic inflammation: Chronic irritation or inflammation of the urethra, such as from urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted infections, may contribute to the development of urethral cancer.
• HPV infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been linked to a higher risk of urethral cancer.
• Smoking: Cigarette smoking has been associated with an increased risk of urethral cancer.

Treatment of urethral cancer

The treatment approach for urethral cancer depends on various factors, including the stage of cancer, the location of the tumour, and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: Surgical intervention is often the primary treatment for urethral cancer. The extent of surgery may involve removing the tumour, part of the urethra, nearby lymph nodes, and sometimes the bladder or surrounding organs.
• Radiation therapy : Radiation therapy is a therapeutic approach that can be utilised either before or after surgery to specifically target and eradicate cancer It can also serve as an alternative treatment for individuals who are not deemed appropriate candidates for surgery.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs may be prescribed to kill cancer cells or to shrink the tumour before surgery or radiation therapy.
• Immunotherapy: In some cases, immunotherapy drugs may be used to stimulate the immune system's response against cancer
• Palliative care: Palliative care aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from advanced urethral cancer. Its main goal is to relieve symptoms and provide psychological and emotional support.