Are Reoccurring UTI A Sign Of Bladder Cancer?

Posted on Tue, 27 Jan 2015

Question: Are reoccuring UTI's particularly likely to be a sign of bladder cancer?
No pain, no bleeding, nothing other than consistent UTI's ... some with bacterial infection and others simply contanination. Always seem to be on antibiotics. Have had CAT scan. Shows nothing abnormal. Also had ultrasound, which also showed nothing abnormal.
Now having a cystoscopy. Cant get to speak with my doctor before proceedure. Just concerned that cancer is perhaps more likely as scans showed no blockage and nothing abnormal. Thank you

Answered by Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Cancer, very low possibility

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query:
Based on your query and attached reports, my opinion is as follows:

1. No, recurrent UTI does not signify bladder tumors.
2. Recurrent UTI at this age is due to dehydration, inadequate therapy or low immunity. Hygiene is also important.
3. Need to take at least 5-6 liters of water per day. Good urine flow reduces risk of infection. Improve immunity through mild exercises and good protein diet.
4. Bladder cancer will present with hematuria at all times, irrespective of therapy. Also obstructive symptoms maybe seen. Urine examination would have shown tumor cells.
5. Urethritis due to dryness leading on to urinary tract infection can also occur. Maintain adequate hydration. Both CT and ultrasound are normal. Obstruction if present requires evaluation by pyelogram. Low possibility as kidney pelvis is normal. Improve hydration and follow things as suggested. If not improved, pyelogram maybe necessary.

Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (31 minutes later)

Thank you so much for your comprehensive reply.
I know there are no guarantees as you say, but I just wanted you to review my CAT scan report and deliver your view. I will go ahead with the cystoscopy investigation. I was happy to hear that urine tests would have shown tunor cells if present. I have had so many urine tests over the months and nothing untoward has been advised. I appreicate your XXXXXXX reply. I will certainly ask further questions as they come to mind. Thank you Dr XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, do get it done for satisfaction

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for replying.

Do go ahead with cystoscope. I doubt anything would be found. It will give you peace of mind.

Do get back anytime for future queries.
You are always welcome. Improve hydration. Take care.

Dr. Prakash HM

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (14 hours later)

Thank you.
If I close this discussion, am I able to come back to you with further queries should they arise? If so, how do I specifically contact you?
Thank you for your assistance. I have not used this service before and therefore not familiar with the processes.
Regards XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (17 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Do not close discussion

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX
Thanks for replying.

You can
1. Wait up to 15 days. The query will get automatically closed. Before then you can ask questions.
2. You can reopen the closed query at any date.
3. You can ask for a query directed to me only, not necessarily direct query.
If you still have queries, customer care could possibly help you.

Do not close it, if you have further queries. Happy to help you again.

Take care.
Dr. Prakash HM

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar