Question Title: Metastatic Bladder Cancer

My mane is Lorena Gale. My friend has bladder cancer. Her bladder was removed about 12-18 months ago. She had chemo and was diagnosed in remission.

Now the doctors are saying they were wrong about the remmission and the cancer has metastisized to her lymphatic system and possibly her bowel and bones.

They say that since the chemo didn't work the first time, there is no point in trying it again. She is obviously scared and all those who love her are extrmemly concerned.

She will receive the final prognosis on tuesday and would like to arm her with as much information about treatments (both traditional and non traditional) for advanced metastisized bladder cancer.

Can you help me?

Thanking you in advance for you time and consideration

Lorena Gale

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Dear Lorena

Thanks for your question. This response may a bit late. It appears that your friend had a fairly aggressive bladder cancer that may have gone into the muscle of the bladder wall. Microscopically it might have even involved the fat around the bladder. That’s probably why she had post-operative chemotherapy. These cancers are very aggressive and often reccure in the pelvic area or rest of the body. In the absence of initial response to chemotherapy oncologist may not try it again. It is important that your friend does not suffer from pain. Generous pain medication needs to be be given. There is no study involving nontraditional medicines for advanced bladder cancer. Urologist should be able to make sure that the ileal loop is working or the ureters are not blocked. Radiation is usually not helpful in these situations. I hope once again your friend is comfortable.

This information is provided for general medical information purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. The Henry Ford Hospital Department of Urology has experience in the evaluation and treatment of problems such as you describe. We would be most interested in helping you. You can reach us through our toll-free number (1-800-653-6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any x-rays [and pathology slides] (not just the reports) as well as any physicians’ notes and lab test results that you may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly.
HFHS M.D.-SS
*Keyword: bladder cancer, metastasis

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