Genitourinary cancers are cancers found in the urinary system and the male reproductive system. These include prostate cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, testicular cancer and cancers of the penis.
Major parts of the urinary system include:
- kidneys
- bladder
- urethra
- ureters.
Major organs of the male reproductive system include:
- prostate gland
- testicles
- penis.
Cancer happens in any of these organs when cells grow abnormally and out of control.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
- Blood in urine
- Flank pain
- Non healing ulcers in the penis
- Increased frequency of urination
- Swelling of testis
HOW TO DETECT?
- Imaging – CT-KUB, Bone scan, Serum PSA levels, Tumor markers for testicular proteins (Alpha feto protein, Beta HCG and LDH)
- Full body PET CT scan
- Transrectal biopsy of prostate
WHAT NEXT?
Kidney tumours are treated with surgery and targeted therapy with drugs known as Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors.
Prostate cancers are treated with prostatectomy or radiation with or without horomonal therapy.
Penile cancers require surgery in the form of partial or total penectomy and radiation.
