Most cancerous growths in the bladder arise in the lining of the bladder wall, but they can also develop in muscle and other cells in the bladder.
Bladder tumors are more common in men and in people whose jobs involve exposure to carcinogens in the rubber, textile, and printing industries; in smokers; and in those with persistent irritation of the bladder from bladder stones or the worm infestation schistosomiasis.
Initially, there may be no symptoms, but over time there may be blood in the urine, difficulty passing urine, and weight loss. A large tumor may cause urinary retention. Untreated, the cancer may spread to other parts of the body.
Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these.