Depeche Mode frontmant Dave Gahan's recent bout with gastroenteritis was more serious than anyone originally thought. It turns out that the singer had what the band is calling a "low-grade malignant tumor" in his bladder.

Gahan was first hospitalized on May 12, forcing the cancellation of DM's Athens, Greece gig. A number of additional concerts planned over the past few weeks were subsequently postponed as the singer learned of his diagnosis and underwent successful surgery to remove the tumor.

Gahan remains on a doctor-ordered break until June 8, when the band intends to resume its recently interrupted 'Tour of the Universe' in Leipzig. According to a statement on the group's official website, Gahan "sincerely thanks his fans for their support, understanding and patience."

"Depeche Mode deeply regret any problems or inconveniences the cancellations and postponements may have caused," the band adds, with the hope that European fans can forgive the need to shift dates around. U.S. fans will be pleased to learn that the group's North American summer tour -- which launches on July 24th in Toronto, and features a Lollapalooza headlining gig on August 7 -- will go on as planned.

Download Depeche Mode Songs