leukoplakia bladder treatment

[Jeanneh212]

I have a 20 yr history of chronic bladder infections also. I have even had out patient iv therapy with iv rocephan . Like this 46 yo woman I never really totally feel 100% free of my symptoms. Today I had a cystoscopy and my urologist said I have leukoplakia. He prescribed a 10 day course of cipro 500mg bid. I asked about a biopsy and he said it was not necessary. Now I am reading that perhaps a biopsy should be done. Please advice me. I have no known family history of bladder cancer and have never smoked, however, I am reading in the literature that women with leukoplakia or malokoplakia of bladder have a 42% higher incidence of bladder cancer. That is a big percentage. What should I do?

[EVBMO]

I had a scope done of my bladder yesterday and was told the walls of my bladder were covered with white plaque. The term Leukoplakia was never mentioned but I was told I need to have a biopsy done of my bladder. I have delt with kidney stones and had a tumor removed ten years ago that I was told was a low grade cancer. Looking up bladder plaque led me to Leukoplakia is this a type of cancer and is all bladder plaque a symptom of this condition. I'm very confused and worried. I need some type of reassurance that this does not mean a serious condition that cannot be treated. I do have appointment to take with the Urologist but it's not for several weeks. Concerned in Worcester, Ma.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Leukoplakia of the bladder is a rare benign condition and is usually treated with vitamin A supplementation and antibiotics. A biopsy is not required.
Hope this information is helpful.

Take care!