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Urachal cancer is a rare type of cancer that develops from the urachus, a small structure connected to the bladder during early development before birth. The urachus usually becomes a thin band of tissue after birth. In some people, parts of this structure remain, and cancer can develop in this area later in life.

Urachal cancer often begins near the top of the bladder. Because early symptoms may be mild or absent, the condition can sometimes go unnoticed until it grows larger. Knowing the warning signs and understanding how doctors diagnose this rare cancer can help people seek medical care sooner.

What Is Urachal Cancer?

Before birth, the urachus connects the developing bladder to the umbilical area. After birth, it normally closes and becomes a fibrous band between the bladder and the belly button.

Urachal cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in tissue associated with this structure. Most urachal cancers are adenocarcinomas, meaning they develop from gland-like cells that can produce mucus.

Unlike many other bladder cancers, urachal cancer often develops near the bladder's dome and may grow within or outside the bladder wall. It is uncommon, and doctors may need specialized tests to distinguish it from other bladder tumors.

What Are the Warning Signs of Urachal Cancer?

Symptoms can differ from person to person. Some people do not notice problems in the early stages.

Common warning signs include:

Blood in the urine: Urine may look pink, red, or brown. Sometimes blood is visible only during laboratory testing.

Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen: A tumor may cause pressure or discomfort around the bladder.

Painful urination: Some people experience burning or discomfort while passing urine.

Frequent urination: A person may feel the need to urinate more often than usual.

A lump near the belly button: In some cases, a mass or swelling may develop around the navel.

Mucus in the urine: Because many urachal tumors produce mucus, it may occasionally appear in the urine.

Repeated urinary problems: Some people experience symptoms that resemble a urinary tract infection.

These symptoms can occur with several other conditions and do not automatically mean cancer. However, visible blood in the urine should always be assessed promptly by a healthcare professional, even if it happens only once.

What Causes Urachal Cancer?

The exact cause of urachal cancer is not fully understood. Researchers are still studying the cellular changes that cause this rare tumor to develop.

Unlike some common cancers, there are no well-established lifestyle risk factors that explain most cases. The presence of remaining urachal tissue may be relevant, but it does not mean that a person will develop cancer.

Because the disease is rare, doctors have limited evidence about specific risk factors. There is also no established routine screening test for people without symptoms.

How Is Urachal Cancer Diagnosed?

Doctors use several tests to identify the tumor, understand its location, and check whether it has spread.

Medical History and Physical Examination

The doctor asks about urinary symptoms, abdominal discomfort, and any changes around the belly button. A physical examination may help identify swelling or a mass.

Urine Tests

A urine sample may be examined for blood, signs of infection, or other abnormalities. These tests can help investigate symptoms but cannot confirm urachal cancer on their own.

Imaging Tests

A CT scan or MRI can help doctors examine the bladder, locate a tumor, and assess nearby tissues. Imaging may also help determine whether the cancer has spread to other areas.

Cystoscopy

During cystoscopy, a doctor uses a thin instrument with a camera to examine the inside of the bladder. This can help identify an abnormal growth near the bladder's dome.

Biopsy and Laboratory Examination

A tissue sample may be collected for examination under a microscope. In some cases, the diagnosis is confirmed through analysis of tissue removed during surgery. The pathologist checks the cells to determine the tumor type and distinguish it from other cancers.

What Are the Treatment Options for Urachal Cancer?

Treatment depends on the tumor's size, location, stage, and whether it has spread beyond the original area.

Surgery

Surgery is often the main treatment when urachal cancer can be removed. The operation may involve removing the tumor, the urachus, and the belly-button area. Part of the bladder or, in selected cases, the entire bladder may also need to be removed, depending on the tumor's extent.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medicines to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be considered when the cancer has spread, cannot be completely removed, or has returned. The treatment plan depends on the individual case.

Other Treatments

Radiation therapy or other cancer medicines may be considered in selected situations. Specialists decide whether these treatments are appropriate based on the tumor's characteristics and the available evidence.

Because urachal cancer is rare, care from a team experienced in urologic cancers can be especially valuable.

Can Urachal Cancer Be Prevented?

There is currently no proven way to prevent urachal cancer, and no standard screening program is recommended for the general population.

The most practical step is to seek medical evaluation for persistent urinary symptoms, unexplained abdominal discomfort, or blood in the urine. Early investigation can help doctors identify the cause and decide whether further testing is needed.

FAQs

Is urachal cancer the same as bladder cancer?

Not exactly. Urachal cancer develops from tissue associated with the urachus, often near the top of the bladder. Most other bladder cancers arise from the lining of the bladder. The distinction matters because diagnosis and treatment can differ.

Is urachal cancer common?

No. It is very rare and accounts for only a small proportion of bladder-related cancers.

Can urachal cancer cause blood in the urine?

Yes. Blood in the urine is one of its common warning signs. However, many other conditions can also cause this symptom, so medical evaluation is important.

Is urachal cancer treatable?

It can be treated, particularly when the tumor can be removed completely. Outcomes depend on the stage, tumor characteristics, and whether the cancer has spread.

Can urachal cancer return after treatment?

Yes. Recurrence is possible, even after surgery. Regular follow-up appointments and imaging or other tests recommended by the medical team are important after treatment.

Conclusion

Urachal cancer is a rare cancer that develops from tissue connected to the bladder during early development. Blood in the urine, lower abdominal discomfort, mucus in the urine, and changes near the belly button may be warning signs. Imaging, cystoscopy, and tissue examination help doctors establish the diagnosis. Surgery is often the main treatment when the tumor can be removed, while other treatments may be considered depending on the stage. Seeking prompt medical attention for unexplained urinary symptoms can help ensure an appropriate evaluation.