Posted on: 18 Aug 2023
Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma (UTUC) is a cancer that affects the inside lining (urothelium) of the kidney (the “collecting system” – where urine starts to drain after it is made by the kidney) and the ureter (the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder).
UTUC is different from bladder cancer or kidney cancer.
UTUC is rare and many people with UTUC do not have any symptoms. They are often diagnosed when they have a urine test for another reason and the test detects blood in the urine that can only be seen under a microscope.
There are two types of UTUC (low-grade and high-grade) and treatment varies for each type. Recurrence rates for both low-grade and high-grade cancers are high. This means the cancer is likely to return after treatment, so people with any type of UTUC should consider getting checked by their doctor often, even after treatment.
By learning more about UTUC symptoms, types and treatments, you may feel more ready to talk with your doctor.
The below resources can be used to help you learn more about Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma (UTUC).
UTUC – What You Should Know Fact Sheet (Download PDF)
UTUC – What You Should Know Fact Sheet (Order and ship free in the United States)
UTUC Podcast with Dr. Aaron Potretzke
UroGen® Pharma is proud to support the Urology Care Foundation in its quest to educate patients.
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