[Epidemiology and pathogenesis of bladder cancer]

First, all known etiologic factors for the development of urinary bladder cancer and those being in discussion are summarized. Consideration is essentially given to industrial carcinogens, tryptophan metabolites, phenacetin, nicotine, coffee, artificial sweeteners, and chronic irritations of the bladder urothelium. In addition, the demographic factors known from the literature, such as familial, geographical, sexual, and racial dispositions are discussed. Another section focuses at the early histological changes of bladder urothelium until tumor manifestation. Especially the significance of the carcinoma in situ is emphasized.