Health library

Bladder cancers are named for the type of cell they start in. The cancer type affects how likely the disease is to spread.

Five types of cancer can develop in the bladder. According to the American Cancer Society, they are: 

• Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). Named for the layer of cells lining the inside of the bladder, TCC is by far the most common form of bladder cancer. It's also known as urothelial cancer. This type of cell is also in other parts of the urinary tract. Your doctor will need to check the entire tract for cancer.
• Squamous cell carcinoma accounts for about 3% to 5% of bladder cancers.
• Adenocarcinoma accounts for about 1% to 2% of bladder cancers.
• Small cell carcinoma accounts for less than 1% of bladder cancers. This type of cancer usually grows quickly.
• Sarcomas are very rare and start in the muscle cells of the bladder.

Reviewed 7/25/2025