Dad has just been diagnosed with small cell bladder cancer in Australia

If the doctor removed the tumor it would have been very unusual NOT to have the tissue sent to a pathology lab for
exact diagnosis. In fact, in the US it would be mandatory. I suspect that this was done in your father's case and that when he said he wouldn't biopsy it I think he meant before the surgery to remove it.

As you know, small cell is not as common as the usual bladder cancer. There have been a number of members here who have had it. Go to the Search function at the top right of this page and search the Forum for Small Cell Bladder Cancer.

Often chemotherapy is recommended even if the bladder is removed since it is always possible that microscopic tumors have colonized elsewhere in the body.

Sara Anne

Welcome, just sorry with what you are dealing with. The biggest question I have with your doctor is: How does he know it is small cell without a biopsy? Visual isn't enough, and I am not a doctor. My surgeon opined my tumor was low grade but, he said wait until the biopsy and he was surprised it was high grade and he has done many TURBS.

Next issue. Chemo is usually done systemically to kill any cancer cells that may lurk before a cystectomy. More as a preventive situation. Radiation is usually NOT recommended for several reasons.

Small cell is rare. There are a few people that visit this site so maybe someone can shed more insight. It is a very serious form of cancer assuming that is the proper diagnosis. If possible, you want to go to your very best Australian hospital that handles bladder cancer.

Pat yourself on the back as the journey goes. You Dad is fortunate to have caring people on his side in this fight! Keep posting as you have other questions.