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Together is a new resource for anyone affected by pediatric cancer - patients and their parents, family members, and friends.
Learn MoreMost survivors of childhood cancer do not have problems with their urinary bladder as a result of their treatment. But certain types of cancer and cancer treatments can damage the bladder.
One condition is neurogenic bladder. A neurogenic bladder is loss of bladder control due to a brain, spinal cord or nerve problem.
A neurogenic bladder may be underactive (not emptying completely) or overactive (emptying too frequently or quickly). People with neurogenic bladders also have an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney damage.
The urinary bladder stores urine. The kidneys filter the blood and make urine. It enters the bladder through 2 tubes called ureters. The urine leaves the bladder through the urethra.
If a neurogenic bladder is suspected, survivors should have an evaluation by a urologist.
The urologist will order tests to determine how well the bladder can store and empty urine. These tests include a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) or bladder cystometry. A cystometry is a test that measures the pressure inside the bladder to see how well the bladder is working.
Treatment depends on the person’s medical needs.
Call your health care provider if:
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Reviewed: December 2019