Upper tract urothelial carcinoma is a rare cancer that forms in the lining of the kidney or ureter and is often diagnosed at a more advanced stage than bladder cancer. Owing to this, its diagnosis is difficult and so is treating this disorder. It accounts for only ~5–10% of all urothelial cancers.
Some common risk factors include:
Many people with UTUC do not have any symptoms. They are often diagnosed when they have a urine test for another reason and the test detects blood in the urine that can only be seen under a microscope. In some cases, a person with UTUC will see blood in their urine. Less common symptoms include pain in the side. In more advanced cases, a person may notice weight loss, loss of appetite or night sweats.
If a patient has side pain or blood in their urine, they are requested to consult their physician immediately.
Uro-oncology encompasses some of the most common (prostate, bladder) and some of the most biologically different (testicular, RCC) cancers in medicine. Early detection, genetic counseling for hereditary syndromes, and multidisciplinary care remain cornerstones of optimal management.
