C66

Malignant neoplasm of the ureter refers to cancerous growths that originate in the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder. This type of cancer is relatively rare and can be classified into various histological types, including transitional cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma. Symptoms may include hematuria (blood in urine), flank pain, and urinary obstruction. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds, followed by cystoscopy and biopsy for definitive histological diagnosis. Staging of ureteral cancer is crucial for determining the extent of disease and guiding treatment options. The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system is commonly used, categorizing the cancer based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and presence of metastasis. Surgical management often involves nephroureterectomy, which is the removal of the affected ureter along with the kidney, and may include lymphadenectomy if lymph nodes are involved. Adjuvant therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation may be considered based on the stage and grade of the tumor.