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Therapeutic Approaches to Invasive Bladder Cancer in the Elderly Patient
1H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612 USA.
Cancer Control : Journal of the Moffitt Cancer Center
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Invasive bladder cancer (transitional cell carcinoma) remains deadly, with most patients succumbing to metastatic disease despite standard treatments. Current chemotherapy combinations may reduce tumor size but haven't improved survival rates.
Area of Science:
- Uro-oncology
- Medical oncology
- Radiation oncology
Background:
- Invasive transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder is a significant cause of cancer mortality.
- Radical cystectomy and radiation are standard local treatments but have limited efficacy against metastatic disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current treatment strategies for invasive bladder cancer.
- To discuss the role of combined modality therapy in managing localized and advanced disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on bladder cancer treatment.
- Analysis of standard therapies (cystectomy, radiation) and newer chemotherapeutic approaches.
- Consideration of factors influencing treatment choice.
Main Results:
- Metastatic disease remains the primary cause of death in over 60% of treated patients.
- Neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy may downstage tumors but have not yet improved overall survival.
- Treatment decisions require a comprehensive assessment of tumor stage, patient health, and preferences.
Conclusions:
- Optimal treatment for invasive bladder cancer necessitates a multimodal approach.
- Patient-specific factors, including comorbidities and functional status, are critical in selecting therapy.
- Age alone should not dictate treatment choices for invasive bladder cancer.