A ureteral tumor is a rare growth inside the thin tube that carries urine from kidney to bladder. Because the tube is narrow, even a small tumor acts like a cork, so symptoms start early and build fast.

Painless blood is the hallmark. Urine turns pink, rust-brown, or contains small clots—often on and off, so many blame a simple infection.

Flank pain creeps in. A dull, steady ache below the ribs can throb more as the bladder fills and ease right after you pee.

Urgency and frequency climb. You dash every hour, yet only a small amount comes out each time, and the urge returns fast.

Stream changes show late. The flow becomes thin, forked, or stops and starts if the tumor drops into the bladder opening.

Weight loss, night sweats, or constant fatigue appear if the cancer has spread beyond the ureter.

Late signs include a swollen lower belly or constant ache—an alarm that the kidney is backed up and the tumor is growing.