Urethral cancer is a condition in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the urethra. Urethral cancer is rare and occurs more often in women than in men. Age and a history of bladder cancer can affect the risk of developing urethral cancer.
The risk factors for urethral cancer include the following.
- Having a history of bladder cancer.
- Having conditions that cause chronic inflammation in the urethra, including sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Being 60 or older.
- Being a female.
Symptoms
The possible signs of urethral cancer are bleeding or trouble with urination. These symptoms can be confused for other conditions. See a doctor when there is a bleeding from the urethra or blood in the urine, weak or interrupted ("stop-and-go") flow of urine, frequent urge to urinate, a lump or thickness in the perineum or penis, discharge from the urethra and enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area.
Treatment
The treatment options for urethral cancer depend on the stage of the cancer, its location, general health, when the cancer was diagnosed and has it recurred. The prognosis is good when it is diagnosed early.