Dr. Kaushik Sarkar Highlights the Link Between Chronic UTIs and Bladder Cancer Risk
Bladder cancer remains one of the most common urological malignancies worldwide, and emerging evidence points toward a strong association between chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs) and cancer risk. Celebrated urologist Dr. Kaushik Sarkar recently reported a case that sheds light on this crucial connection.
Case Overview
A 55-year-old male, with a long history of recurrent UTIs, presented with painless gross hematuria (blood in urine). Cystoscopy revealed a bladder tumor, and biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of non-muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma.
Treatment Approach
- Surgical Management: The patient underwent Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT) to remove the visible lesion.
- Adjuvant Therapy: Following surgery, intravesical Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy was administered to minimize recurrence risk.
Patient Outcome
- At the 3-month follow-up cystoscopy, no tumor recurrence was observed.
- The patient has been placed on a regular surveillance protocol (cystoscopy and ultrasound every 3 months).
Key Takeaways
- Chronic or recurrent UTIs can provoke long-standing bladder inflammation, which may increase the risk of bladder cancer.
- TURBT followed by BCG therapy remains the gold-standard approach in treating non-muscle-invasive bladder carcinoma.
- Vigilant monitoring of patients with recurrent UTIs can aid in early cancer detection, improving survival rates and quality of life.
Conclusion
This case underscores the critical need for awareness regarding the link between chronic UTIs and bladder cancer risk. Thanks to the expertise of Dr. Kaushik Sarkar, the patient achieved a favorable outcome through timely surgical and immunotherapy intervention. Regular follow-up remains essential to ensure long-term disease-free survival.