Overview

Urologic cancers include cancer of the prostate, bladder, kidney and testis. Many are found early through a blood test, blood in the urine, or a scan done for another reason.

We follow each patient from the first test to the treatment plan, and work with oncologists and radiologists when a case needs a multidisciplinary team.

Common symptoms

Painless blood in the urine, even once
A raised PSA result
A lump or swelling in a testicle, often painless
A kidney mass seen on a scan done for something else
Persistent flank or bone pain with no clear cause

How we diagnose it

PSA and prostate MRI: To decide who needs a biopsy, and to target the biopsy to the suspicious area.
Cystoscopy: A direct look at the bladder lining when there is blood in the urine.
CT and MRI: To assess the kidney and stage the tumour.
Biopsy and pathology: To confirm the diagnosis and tumour type before planning treatment.

Treatment options

Listed from least invasive. Treatment is chosen after assessment and agreed with you.

Active surveillance
For some low-risk prostate cancers: regular monitoring instead of immediate treatment.
Endoscopic bladder tumour resection (TURBT)
Removes the tumour and shows how deep it goes, followed by scheduled check cystoscopies.
Laparoscopic or robotic surgery
Removing all or part of the prostate or kidney, depending on tumour type and stage, by laparoscopy or robotic surgery where suitable, or open surgery when needed.
Coordinated oncology care
When radiotherapy or drug treatment is needed alongside, or instead of, surgery.

Frequently asked questions

Does a high PSA mean cancer?

Not necessarily. PSA also rises with prostate enlargement, inflammation and other causes. A raised result means it needs further assessment.

When should I start prostate checks?

We usually discuss testing from 50, or earlier with a family history. It's a shared decision after explaining what testing can and can't tell you.

Is all blood in the urine serious?

Not always, but visible blood in the urine deserves a full assessment even if it stops.

Related conditions

Prostate

Enlarged prostate (BPH)

Assessment of weak flow and night-time urination, treated with medication, Rezum vapour therapy, laser or endoscopic resection.

Read about this Kidneys & stones

Kidney & ureteric stones

Stone diagnosis, shock-wave or laser treatment, and a plan to stop stones coming back.

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