Bladder cancer that is in an early stage of growth may not produce any obvious signs or symptoms. The most common sign of BC is hematuria (bleeding in the urine; urine that appears bright red or rusty) is usually painless and may appear only occasionally over a period of months. Over 80% of all patients with BC eventually present with macroscopic or microscopic hematuria. BC that becomes necrotic can release pieces of dead tissue into the urine. Papillary tissue fragments and calcareous deposits are other forms of tumor-related material that can be eliminated in urine. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Histology of bladder cancer: Of the different types of cells that form the bladder, the cells that line the inside of the bladder wall are most likely to develop cancer. Any of three different cell types can become cancerous. The resulting tumors are named after the cell type.Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC): The most common is transitional cell carcinoma which accounts for over 93% of all BC (Lynch & Cohen, 1995). The so-called transitional cells are normal cells that form the innermost lining of the bladder wall. In TCC, these normal lining cells undergo changes that lead to uncontrolled cell growth; characteristic of cancer.Squamous cell carcinoma: These tumors arise from thin, flat cells that typically form as a result of inflammation or irritation of the bladder that has taken place over many months or years. Although this is the second most common form of BC, it accounts for only 2–5% of cases in industrialized countries (Lerner et al., 2006). They are more common in developing countries where a worm infection called bilharzia or schistosomiasis is common. When squamous cell BC is detected it is usually in an advanced stage. Adenocarcinoma: These tumors form from the cells that make up the glands. Glands are specialized structures that produce and release fluids such as mucus. This is a very rare type of BC and constitutes only 1–2% of all patients diagnosed with BC (Lynch & Cohen, 1995). Most adenocarcinomas are advanced at the time of diagnosis and generally do not respond to radiation therapy. However, these three types of cancer can develop anywhere in the urinary tract. Bladder cancer staging: Stage refers to the physical location of the tumor within the urinary tract. bladder or, more specifically, the depth of penetration of the tumor. In general, tumor stage is confined to one of two categories: (1) superficial tumors, or (2) invasive, deep-spreading tumors. Superficial tumors affect only the lining of the bladder. They grow out of the lining tissue and extend into the hollow cavity of the bladder. Invasive tumors grow in the deeper layers of bladder tissue and may involve surrounding muscles, fat, and/or nearby organs. Invasive tumors are more dangerous than superficial tumors, as they are more likely to metastasize. The BC staging system was developed by the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) (Sobin & Wittekind, 1997). TNM System: Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom EssayA The TNM grading system for cancer staging was established by the UICC (Union Internationale Center le Cancer) in 1946. The “T” describes the extent of the tumor based on the depth of invasion into the bladder wall. “N” refers to the state of lymph node involvement)..