Bladder cancer can spread through several mechanisms:
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Local Invasion: Cancer cells infiltrate nearby structures such as the ureters, urethra, prostate (in men), or vagina (in women).
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Lymphatic System: Cancer cells enter lymphatic vessels, leading to metastasis in regional lymph nodes.
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Bloodstream: Cancer cells access blood vessels, allowing them to travel and establish secondary tumors in distant organs like the lungs, liver, bones, or peritoneum.