Bladder Cancer Specialist

Kiavash Nikkhou, MD Our Services Bladder Cancer

Kiavash Nikkhou, MD

Board Certified Urologist & Kidney Stone Specialist located in Thousand Oaks, CA

According to the American Cancer Society, California has the most bladder cancer cases — and bladder cancer deaths — in the United States. Experienced board-certified urologist Kiavash Nikkhou, MD, offers comprehensive bladder cancer care in his Thousand Oaks, California, office. Dr. Nikkhou works closely with a multidisciplinary team, which includes oncologists and radiologists to give you the very best care. Book your appointment online or call the office today.

Bladder Cancer Q & A

What are the symptoms of bladder cancer?

The symptoms of bladder cancer may include:

  • Hematuria (blood in your urine)
  • Pain during urination
  • Increased urge to urinate
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Abdominal pain
  • Tiredness
  • Low back pain
  • Poor appetite
  • Unintended weight loss 

These symptoms can also occur with other conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urinary tract infections, or kidney stones. So, when you notice any of these problems, it's important to see Dr. Nikkhou for a diagnosis as soon as possible. Bladder cancer is highly treatable when detected early. 

How is bladder cancer diagnosed?

Dr. Nikkhou may perform a cystoscopy, a procedure where he places a slender tube through your urethra to diagnose your bladder cancer. This gives him a direct view of the inner urethra and bladder. 

During your cystoscopy, Dr. Nikkhou can perform a biopsy using the transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) method. TURBT involves removing your tumor and some of the tissue underneath it. Then, an experienced pathologist examines the tissue in detail.

TURBT is the only way to definitively determine the kind of tumor, its grade, and if it’s invasive. In general, non-invasive cancers are those limited to the innermost cell layer in your bladder. Invasive cancers are those that encompass other, deeper layers of your bladder wall. 

How is bladder cancer treated?

Dr. Nikkhou works with a multidisciplinary team including medical oncologists, radiologists, and radiation oncologists to offer the most up-to-date medical and surgical solutions for bladder cancer. 

Low-grade tumors

For low-grade tumors, Dr. Nikkhou may recommend a watch-and-wait. He performs cystoscopy at regular intervals to monitor your tumor.

High-grade tumors

For high-grade tumors, Dr. Nikkhou may recommend in-office intravesical bladder immunotherapy. This treatment helps to destroy cancer cells and prevent regrowth. Intravesical bladder immunotherapy is also typical immediately after TURBT. 

Muscle invasive tumors

Muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) requires aggressive action, as it has a high chance of further progression. Dr. Nikkhou can explain all the treatment options, including neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by bladder removal or an additional TURBT procedure combined with chemotherapy and radiation. 

Dr. Nikkhou is up-to-date with the most advanced medical and surgical treatments for bladder cancer, and he ensures that you get the most effective treatment options. 

For bladder cancer care from a top-notch specialist, call Kiavash Nikkhou, MD, or schedule online.


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