Urologic Cancer

Urologic cancers we treat

Types of urologic cancer we treat include:

• Bladder cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Penile cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Testicular cancer

Symptoms of urologic cancer

The symptoms of urologic cancer vary based on which organ is affected.

Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty urinating
• Blood in the urine (known as hematuria)
• Pain/pressure in the area that doesn’t go away
• Severe pain in the pelvis, back or lower stomach
• Blood in a man’s semen
• Changes in the skin of a man’s penis
• A lump or swelling in a man’s testicles

Urologic cancer care at Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute

At the Cancer Institute, you receive care from doctors who completed additional training (fellowships) in urology. Our doctors are researchers who have studied urologic cancer at the molecular level. This level of expertise means we understand the science behind urologic cancer and the best ways to treat it. Highlights of our program include:

Innovative treatments

We were the first cancer center in the region offering robot-assisted cystoprostatectomy for bladder cancer. Using robotic technology, surgeons remove the cancer and repair nearby bladder tissue through a small incision. Learn more about robotic surgery.

Team approach

Our urologic cancer experts, who include radiation oncologists, medical oncologists and surgeons, work together to help you get the care that’s right for your unique needs. For prostate cancer, you see multiple specialists and receive a personalized care plan with just one visit to our multidisciplinary cancer clinic.

Access to clinical trials

For complex urologic cancer, including cancer that comes back after treatment, you are not out of options. We offer access to innovative treatments, including immunotherapy for kidney cancer, through cancer research and clinical trials.

Treatments for urologic cancer

You have access to a broad range of treatments, including:

Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)

This technique leads to more precise care by focusing radiation beams to match the shape of the cancer. IMRT is one of many radiation therapy techniques we offer.

SpaceOAR® hydrogel

During radiation therapy for prostate cancer, we protect the nearby tissue of the rectum using this innovative gel. SpaceOAR creates a protective barrier, preserving a man’s ability to have normal bowel movements after treatment.

Cancer drugs (chemotherapy and immunotherapy)

We use personalized combinations of drugs to slow or stop cancer cells from growing. We offer all the latest chemotherapy options. Find out more about chemotherapy.

Surgery

You may need surgery to remove the cancer. We also perform reconstructive surgery if cancer treatments affect the functioning of your urologic system. Read more about cancer surgery.

Rehabilitation

Cancer treatment may weaken a layer of muscle in your lower abdomen (pelvic floor) that helps control the urinary system. We offer specialized therapy to help you strengthen the area so you can regain control as quickly as possible. Learn more about cancer rehabilitation.