Genito-Urinary Malignancy
Genito-Urinary (GU) Malignancies refer to cancers that affect the urinary system (kidneys, ureters, bladder, prostate, urethra) and the male reproductive organs (testes and penis).
These cancers represent a significant proportion of all malignancies in men and women, and their management demands a multidisciplinary approach involving urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiologists.
Advances in surgical techniques, radiation delivery, and systemic therapy have dramatically improved survival rates and quality of life for patients with GU cancers.
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Prostate Cancer
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One of the most common cancers in men.
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Arises from the prostate gland, typically slow-growing but may spread if untreated.
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Screening with PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) and digital rectal examination aids early detection.
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Bladder Cancer
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Originates in the inner lining (urothelium) of the bladder.
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Associated with smoking and exposure to industrial chemicals.
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Presents with painless blood in urine (hematuria) as a key early sign.
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Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer
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Develops in the kidney’s filtering units (renal cortex).
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Often discovered incidentally during imaging for unrelated conditions.
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Testicular Cancer
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Affects younger men, typically between ages 20–40.
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Highly curable even in advanced stages with timely treatment.
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Penile Cancer
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A rare malignancy linked to chronic inflammation and HPV infection.
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Early recognition is crucial for organ preservation.
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Depending on the organ involved, patients may experience:
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Blood in urine (hematuria)
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Difficulty or pain during urination
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Lower back or flank pain
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Swelling or lump in testicle
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Changes in urinary flow
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Pelvic pain or bone pain (in advanced stages)
Any persistent urinary or reproductive symptom warrants specialist evaluation.
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Diagnosis of GU malignancies relies on clinical evaluation, imaging, and tissue confirmation.
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Common Diagnostic Tools:
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Ultrasound / CT / MRI for anatomical assessment
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Cystoscopy for bladder visualization
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Prostate biopsy for histological diagnosis
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PSA testing for prostate cancer screening
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PET-CT for staging and detecting metastasis
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Urine cytology for detecting malignant cells
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Curative potential in localized prostate and bladder cancers
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Organ preservation (avoiding cystectomy or prostatectomy in selected cases)
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Shorter treatment courses with SBRT
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Painless and non-invasive
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Effective palliation for bone pain or bleeding in advanced disease
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Curative potential in localized prostate and bladder cancers
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Organ preservation (avoiding cystectomy or prostatectomy in selected cases)
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Shorter treatment courses with SBRT
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Painless and non-invasive
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Effective palliation for bone pain or bleeding in advanced disease
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Genito-Urinary malignancies encompass a diverse group of cancers that require precision, coordination, and compassion in management.
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Radiation Oncology has evolved into a highly effective, organ-sparing, and minimally invasive treatment option — especially in prostate and bladder cancers — offering cure rates comparable to surgery with fewer complications.
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A multidisciplinary approach, cutting-edge technology, and personalized care ensure that patients not only live longer but live better, with preserved function and dignity.
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