Unusual Therapeutic Response of Massive Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder to Aggressive Radiation and Surgery

Abstract

We report a case of stage D, poorly differentiated invasive squamous cancer of the bladder. Following transurethral resection of the tumor (170 gm.) and urinary diversion, the patient received 6,500 rad external radiation. After completion of radiation the bladder was converted from an inoperable (fixed to the pelvis) to an operable (mobile) condition. A cystectomy was performed and the patient was without evidence of disease 4 years later. The controversies of the therapeutic approach to squamous cancer of the bladder are discussed.