What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Divergent Differentiation in Urothelial Carcinoma

What is Urothelial Carcinoma with Divergent Differentiation? (Definition/Background Information)

• Urothelial Carcinoma with Divergent Differentiation is a subtype of invasive urothelial carcinoma (UCC), a form of malignancy of the urothelium (urothelial cells that line the urothelial tract). The divergent differentiation observed may be squamous, glandular, or trophoblastic differentiation type. Among these, the squamous type is more frequently seen (observed in 30-40% of the cases), followed by the glandular type (in about 18% of the cases)
• Urothelial Carcinoma with Divergent Differentiation is diagnosed under a microscope, on examination of the cancer cells by a pathologist. It is important to exclude primary squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma prior to establishing a diagnosis. The classification of the tumor is important, as it may dictate the type of treatments to be provided and the overall outcomes
• The exact cause of urothelial carcinoma is presently unknown. In some cases, multiple morphological patterns and differentiations may be observed within the same tumor. Many contributory factors, such as smoking (a significant risk factor), occupational exposure to chemicals, and prior radiation therapy are noted. The carcinoma is generally observed in middle-aged and older adults
• The signs and symptoms of Urothelial Carcinoma with Divergent Differentiation usually include blood in urine (hematuria), burning sensation on urination, back pain, and urinary tract infections. During its advanced stages, the cancer may metastasize to the lymph nodes and other organs
• The treatment of urothelial carcinoma may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy based on the healthcare provider’s assessment. Those with UCC showing squamous and glandular divergent differentiations are associated with worse prognosis. Individuals with urothelial carcinoma with squamous differentiation may present advanced stages with aggressive metastatic and muscle-invasive disease