My 81 yr. old sister has been diagnosed with high grade, invasive bladder cancer. She is not a candidate for surgery. I understand that the cancer will spread. Because my sister has dementia and because she recently made a terrible fuss about going to 6 wks. of radiation (at a very friendly, supportive office) for squamous cell CA, I know she will not understand or agree to the daily treatments. It would be torture for her. I probably could get her to go a number of times, but her Primary Physician explained that it is a commitment. I now understand that it is all or nothing, I have picked nothing,
My sister is content at present and takes care of herself with the support of daily help. There is a slight trace of blood in her urine now She has an appointment with the referring urologist after Thanksgiving to scrape out whatever tumors are present. Her urologist did this before. I know it IS NOT A CURE. My sister's Primary Physician is connected to end of life arrangements. But I'd like to prepare for the expected sequence of events.
Her Primary physician suggested I ask the radiation oncologist my questions. But I have refused the treatment he advised so I'm very reluctant to contact his office.
What is a likely sequence of events when bladder cancer is untreated .