Bladder tumors in young patients under 40 years: A retrospective study of 18 cases

Introduction: Bladder tumors are common and represent the second most frequent urological malignancy. They are classically considered a disease of older adults, typically occurring between 50 and 70 years of age. Their occurrence before the age of 40 is rare, accounting for only 1–4% of all cases. The natural history and prognosis of bladder tumors in young patients remain a subject of debate. 

Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective, single-center study including 18 patients aged under 40 years who were managed between 2019 and 2023.

Results: Among 487 patients, 18 (3.7%) were younger than 40 years. The mean age was 34.2 years, with a male predominance (83.3%; male-to-female ratio = 5). Hematuria was present in 83.3% of cases. Non–muscle-invasive bladder tumors accounted for 61.1% of cases. Urothelial carcinoma was the predominant histological type (83.3%). The recurrence rate was 22.2%.

Conclusion: Bladder tumors in young patients are rare and generally associated with a favorable prognosis; however, long-term surveillance remains essential.