Can an untreated urinary tract infection eventually turn into bladder cancer?

No. A standard bacterial UTI cannot mutate or turn into bladder cancer. However, individuals who suffer from severe, chronic urinary tract inflammation—such as those with long-term indwelling catheters or recurrent parasitic infections (like schistosomiasis, common in certain developing nations)—do face a slightly elevated risk of developing a rare subtype of the disease known as squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder.

Is painless blood in the urine always a sign of bladder cancer?

Not always, but it is the hallmark symptom of bladder cancer and must be treated as a medical emergency. While painless hematuria can also be caused by benign conditions like an enlarged prostate (BPH), kidney stones, or intense physical exercise, it is the most common early warning sign of a urothelial tumor. You should never ignore it or assume it will simply go away.

Why did my doctor order a cystoscopy if my UTI symptoms already cleared up?

If you were treated for a UTI but a follow-up urinalysis still detects microscopic amounts of blood (microhematuria) without any bacteria, urologic guidelines mandate further investigation. Because bladder cancer tumors are highly vascular and bleed easily, this microscopic bleeding can be the only sign of an early-stage malignancy. A cystoscopy is the only way to visually confirm the bladder lining is clear of tumors.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) or Bladder Cancer

A bladder infection is one possible cause of urinary symptoms, but in some cases, similar symptoms may also be linked to bladder cancer. Bladder infections, which are the most common type of urinary tract infection (UTI), occur when bacteria enter the body through the urethra and multiply in the bladder. They can cause pain, burning during urination, frequent urination and pelvic discomfort. While UTIs are common and usually treatable, symptoms that persist, return frequently or include blood in the urine should not be ignored, as they can sometimes be signs of bladder cancer rather than an infection.

woman with possible Bladder Cancer holding hands over abdomen

Urinary tract infections and bladder cancer can share similar symptoms, which is why understanding the differences and knowing when to seek medical attention is important.

39% =

Women with bladder cancer initially misdiagnosed with UTIs
75%

Bladder cancer patients who are men
25%

Bladder cancer patients are women
18%

Women with bladder cancer symptoms who visit their GP 5 x's or more before referral to a specialist

Bladder cancer is far less common than a UTI, but some of the symptoms can overlap. Bladder cancer develops when abnormal cells form in the lining of the bladder and begin growing uncontrollably. Over time, these cells can form tumors that affect how the bladder functions and, if left untreated, may spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. Because early bladder cancer symptoms can resemble a urinary tract infection, ongoing or unexplained urinary changes should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Symptoms of Bladder Cancer vs a UTI

Bladder infections and bladder cancer share many common symptoms. It is important to have persistent UTI symptoms evaluated by a physician who can provide an accurate diagnosis. Here are some signs you should pay close attention to:

Bloody, dark, cloudy, bright red or pink-tinged urine
Odorous urine
Pain or burning sensations during urination
Urinary frequency or urgency
Bladder spasms
Pelvic or low back pain
Fever

In general, if you notice any evidence of blood in your urine - which is never normal - or other unusual changes in your urinary habits, you should talk with a physician right away so that you can receive the treatment you need. Usually, bladder infections are treated with antibiotics, while bladder cancer treatment can vary based on many individual factors. Some options include surgery, intravesical chemotherapy, systemic chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy.

You do not have to face bladder cancer alone — our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Talk to a Bladder Cancer Specialist

Consult With a Specialist

If you would like to discuss your symptoms with a specialist in the Urologic Oncology Program at Moffitt Cancer Center, call 1-888-663-3488 or complete our new patient registration form online. When you turn to Moffitt, you can feel confident that you are a top priority of a cancer center that delivers nationally-ranked care in new and transformative ways.

FAQs

Is it a UTI or Bladder Cancer?

Symptoms of Bladder Cancer vs a UTI

Consult With a Specialist

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