The 20 Best Bladder Cancer Doctors near Houma, LA

What is the definition of Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer is a malignancy of the organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine and is the sixth most common cancer in the U.S. Bladder cancer frequently starts in the cells lining the bladder (urothelial cells); however, it can also occur in other types of bladder cells as well as include more than one type of cell. Three types of bladder cancer that begin in the cells lining the bladder (urothelial cells) are 1) urothelial carcinoma, which is also called transitional cell carcinoma; 2) squamous cell carcinoma; and 3) adenocarcinoma. Urothelial carcinoma (Transitional cell carcinoma) – Urothelial carcinoma, which is the most common type of bladder cancer in the U.S., is found in the cells lining the inside of the bladder (urothelial), which expand when the bladder is full and contract when it is empty. Squamous cell carcinoma – Squamous cell carcinoma can occur from chronic bladder irritation, such as frequent bladder infections or long-term catheterization. While rare in the U.S., this cancer is common in other countries where parasite infections called schistosomiasis cause frequent bladder infections. Adenocarcinoma – Adenocarcinoma occurs in the glands of the bladder that secrete mucus and is rare in the U.S. Bladder cancer is further classified as either non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) or muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) – Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer is the most common type of bladder cancer, and usually does not spread (metastasize); however, it frequently recurs after treatment. Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) – Muscle-invasive bladder cancer spreads to the muscle wall of the bladder and can be life-threatening. Bladder cancer is also categorized by the following stages: Stage 0 (0a and Ois) – Non-invasive papillary carcinoma or carcinoma in situ, with abnormal cells that may become cancerous and spread (metastasize). Stage I – Cancer has spread to the connective beyond the inner lining of the bladder (urothelial cells). Stage II – Cancer has spread to the muscle layers of the bladder. Stage III (IIIA and IIIB) – Cancer has spread to the fat outside the bladder, and possibly the reproductive organs, such as uterus, vagina, prostate, or seminal vesicles; or cancer has spread to one pelvic lymph node. Stage IV (IVA an IVB) – Cancer has spread from bladder to the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or pelvis; or cancer has spread to lymph nodes above common iliac arteries. Cancer has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the body, such as liver, lung, and bone. Bladder cancers are further categorized based on the appearance of cells, as either a low-grade bladder tumor or high-grade bladder tumor. Low-grade bladder tumor – Low-grade bladder tumor has cells that look more like normal cells, grows slowly, and is usually non-invasive (does not spread). High-grade bladder tumor – High-grade bladder tumor has cells that look abnormal, is more aggressive, and is usually invasive (spreads). The stage and grade of bladder cancer determines its treatment and outcome (prognosis).

When should I see a Bladder Cancer doctor near Houma, LA?

There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as:

Your primary care provider recommends it.

Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care.

Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment.

You need specialized testing or procedures.

You want a second opinion.

What should I consider when choosing a Bladder Cancer doctor near Houma, LA?

It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.

How do I find the best Bladder Cancer doctor near Houma, LA?

You can find a Bladder Cancer doctor in any of the 10 largest U.S. cities by clicking below:

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Bladder Cancer doctor near San Jose, CA

How does MediFind rank Bladder Cancer doctors near Houma, LA?

MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database.

What types of insurance are accepted by Bladder Cancer doctors near Houma, LA?

Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network.

How can I book an appointment online with a Bladder Cancer doctor near Houma, LA?

MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Bladder Cancer doctor search results page.

Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Bladder Cancer doctor?

Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.

How can I prepare for my appointment with a Bladder Cancer doctor near Houma, LA?

Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items:

Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year)

Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see

Family history of disease

List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses

Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.

List of questions and concerns

Your insurance card

You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit.

What questions should I ask my Bladder Cancer doctor?

Here are some sample questions:

Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated?

What symptoms or side effects should I watch for?

What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results?

Are there other specialists I need to see?

What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions?

How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my Bladder Cancer doctor may know about?

MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you.

MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand.

Can I filter my search to show male or female Bladder Cancer doctors near Houma, LA?

Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Bladder Cancer doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers.

Can I filter my search to find a Bladder Cancer doctor that offers video calls?

Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Bladder Cancer doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls).

Reviewed on: 11/11/24

By: MediFind Medical Staff