Potential RC. Providence,R.I.

Sounds as if you are on the right track!!! Dr.Dalbagni
is an expert in bladder cancer! As for another TURB, that also is excellent procedure; many times bladder cancer is underdiagnosed. It is often very useful to go back a second time, with some idea of where the problem areas are, and take another look.

Best of luck to you!

You need to be evaluated at a center that has urologists that specialize in bladder cancer. You have already identified several that are close enough for you to go there, at least for a consult.

Carcinoma in situ (CIS) is a high grade form of bladder cancer, that can often be successfully treated with BCG infusions. High Grade means that it has the potential to spread. This is why you need to see a specialist.

My initial diagnosis was CIS. After undergoing the BCG treatments, I am now four and a half years out with no recurrence. This is a highly treatable condition, but one to pay attention to!!!

Sara Anne

First, take a deep breath. There are some things we need to clarify before we really answer your questions.

Did the pathology report say "muscularis propia was present" in the sample or did it say that the tumor extended into the muscularia propia? These are two very different things.

If it said that muscle was present in the sample, it means that the urologist did a very good job during the TURB. Having muscle present in the speciman means that the pathologist can ascertain that the tumor was superficial and did NOT extend into the muscle. THIS WOULD BE GOOD NEWS.

If it said that the tumor extended into the muscle, that means that the cancer has gone a bit further and additional factors must be considered.

You should be seeing a really good urologist who treats a lot of bladder cancer patients. Many urologists see bladder cancer occasionally, but specialize in prostates. Oncologists usually do not treat bladder cancer unless it has reached a point where chemotherapy is indicated...and then they still work with a urologist.

Mass General is an excellent choice, as would be Memorial Sloan Kettering in NYC or Johns Hopkins in Baltimore. If you go to the Home page of this web site, at the top, click on HELP. From the menu that appears, choose Researched Resources and click on it. To the right are three more choices (!)...click on Doctor and Center Locator. Here you can read about all the places near you.

Best of luck to you, Louie. And we are here to try to answer any questions you may have.

Sara Anne