Urothelial Carcinoma of the Prostate

Computer-assisted diagnosis to improve diagnostic pathology: A review

ABSTRACT

With an increasing demand for accuracy and efficiency in diagnostic pathology, computer-assisted diagnosis (CAD) emerges as a prominent and transformative solution. This review aims to explore the practical applications, implications, strengths, and weaknesses of CAD applied to diagnostic pathology. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to include English-language studies focusing on CAD tools, digital pathology, and Artificial intelligence (AI) applications in pathology. The review underscores the transformative potential of CAD tools in pathology, particularly in streamlining diagnostic processes, reducing turnaround times, and augmenting diagnostic accuracy. It emphasizes the strides made in digital pathology, the integration of AI, and the promising prospects for prognostic biomarker discovery using computational methods. Additionally, ethical considerations regarding data privacy, equity, and trust in AI deployment are examined. CAD has the potential to revolutionize diagnostic pathology. The insights gleaned from this review offer a panoramic view of recent advancements. Ultimately, this review aims to guide future research, influence clinical practice, and inform policy-making by elucidating the promising horizons and potential pitfalls of integrating CAD tools in pathology.

European Association of Urology Guidelines on Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer (TaT1 and Carcinoma In Situ)-A Summary of the 2024 Guidelines Update

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

This publication represents a summary of the updated 2024 European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), TaT1, and carcinoma in situ. The information presented herein is limited to urothelial carcinoma, unless specified otherwise. The aim is to provide practical recommendations on the clinical management of NMIBC with a focus on clinical presentation.

METHODS

For the 2024 guidelines on NMIBC, new and relevant evidence was identified, collated, and appraised via a structured assessment of the literature. Databases searched included Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Libraries. Recommendations within the guidelines were developed by the panel to prioritise clinically important care decisions. The strength of each recommendation was determined according to a balance between desirable and undesirable consequences of alternative management strategies, the quality of the evidence (including the certainty of estimates), and the nature and variability of patient values and preferences.

KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS

Key recommendations emphasise the importance of thorough diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for patients with NMIBC. The guidelines stress the importance of defining patients' risk stratification and treating them appropriately.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

This overview of the 2024 EAU guidelines offers valuable insights into risk factors, diagnosis, classification, prognostic factors, treatment, and follow-up of NMIBC. These guidelines are designed for effective integration into clinical practice.

Primary high-grade urothelial carcinoma of prostate with prostatic hyperplasia: a rare case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Primary urothelial carcinoma in the prostate (UCP) is extremely rare and occurs most frequently in the bladder. There are only dozens of primary cases reported in the literature. Here, we describe a rare case of primary UCP and review the literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 67-year-old widowed male, was referred to our hospital due to the frequency, and urgency of dysuria. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination revealed prostate size was about 57 mm × 50 mm × 54 mm, increased prostatic transitional zone, and surrounding of prostatic duct indicate bar isointense T1, short T2, hyperintense DWI, and hyposignal ADC (PI-RADS 3); posterior of peripheral zone indicate patchy isointense T1, short T2, hyperintense DWI, and hyposignal ADC (PI-RADS 5). Subsequently, the patient underwent a transrectal prostate biopsy. Histopathological and immunohistochemical (IHC) assessments showed prostatic high-grade urothelial carcinoma with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Finally, the patient underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Four months after surgery, CT plain and enhanced scan revealed thickening of the bladder wall. On further workup, cystoscopy revealed lymphoid follicular changes in the cut edge of the radical prostatectomy, and cystoscopic biopsies showed the malignant tumor.

CONCLUSIONS

Prostatic urothelial carcinoma should always be considered if the patient with severe lower urinary tract symptoms or hematuria, PSA, and digital rectal examination without abnormalities, without a personal history of urothelial cancer, but contrast-enhanced MRI showed the lesion located in the prostate. As of right now, radical surgical resections remain the most effective treatment. The effectiveness of neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy is still controversial.

Impact of carcinoma in situ on the outcome of intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin therapy for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer: a comparative analysis of large real-world data

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the clinical impact of carcinoma in situ (CIS) in intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy for patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

METHODS

This study retrospectively evaluated 3035 patients who were diagnosed with NMIBC and treated by intravesical BCG therapy between 2000 and 2019 at 31 institutions. Patients were divided into six groups according to the presence of CIS as follows: low-grade Ta without concomitant CIS, high-grade Ta without concomitant CIS, high-grade Ta with concomitant CIS, high-grade T1 without concomitant CIS, high-grade T1 with concomitant CIS, and pure CIS (without any papillary lesion). The endpoints were recurrence- and progression-free survival after the initiation of BCG therapy. We analyzed to identify factors associated with recurrence and progression.

RESULTS

At a median follow-up of 44.4 months, recurrence and progression were observed in 955 (31.5%) and 316 (10.4%) patients, respectively. Comparison of six groups using univariate and multivariate analysis showed no significant association of CIS. However, CIS in the prostatic urethra was an independent factors associated with progression.

CONCLUSION

Concomitant CIS did not show a significant impact in the analysis of Ta and T1 tumors which were treated using intravesical BCG. Concomitant CIS in the prostatic urethra was associated with high risk of progression. Alternative treatment approaches such as radical cystectomy should be considered for patients with NMIBC who have a risk of progression.

European Association of Urology Guidelines on Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer (Ta, T1, and Carcinoma in Situ)

CONTEXT

The European Association of Urology (EAU) has released an updated version of the guidelines on non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

OBJECTIVE

To present the 2021 EAU guidelines on NMIBC.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A broad and comprehensive scoping exercise covering all areas of the NMIBC guidelines since the 2020 version was performed. Databases covered by the search included Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Libraries. Previous guidelines were updated, and the level of evidence and grade of recommendation were assigned.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Tumours staged as Ta, T1 and carcinoma in situ (CIS) are grouped under the heading of NMIBC. Diagnosis depends on cystoscopy and histological evaluation of tissue obtained via transurethral resection of the bladder (TURB) for papillary tumours or via multiple bladder biopsies for CIS. For papillary lesions, a complete TURB is essential for the patient's prognosis and correct diagnosis. In cases for which the initial resection is incomplete, there is no muscle in the specimen, or a T1 tumour is detected, a second TURB should be performed within 2-6 wk. The risk of progression may be estimated for individual patients using the 2021 EAU scoring model. On the basis of their individual risk of progression, patients are stratified as having low, intermediate, high, or very high risk, which is pivotal to recommending adjuvant treatment. For patients with tumours presumed to be at low risk and for small papillary recurrences detected more than 1 yr after a previous TURB, one immediate chemotherapy instillation is recommended. Patients with an intermediate-risk tumour should receive 1 yr of full-dose intravesical bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy or instillations of chemotherapy for a maximum of 1 yr. For patients with high-risk tumours, full-dose intravesical BCG for 1-3 yr is indicated. For patients at very high risk of tumour progression, immediate radical cystectomy should be considered. Cystectomy is also recommended for BCG-unresponsive tumours. The extended version of the guidelines is available on the EAU website at https://uroweb.org/guideline/non-muscle-invasive-bladder-cancer/.

CONCLUSIONS

These abridged EAU guidelines present updated information on the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC for incorporation into clinical practice.

PATIENT SUMMARY

The European Association of Urology has released updated guidelines on the classification, risk factors, diagnosis, prognostic factors, and treatment of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The recommendations are based on the literature up to 2020, with emphasis on the highest level of evidence. Classification of patients as having low, intermediate, or and high risk is essential in deciding on suitable treatment. Surgical removal of the bladder should be considered for tumours that do not respond to bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) treatment and tumours with the highest risk of progression.

Revisiting an Old Conundrum: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Intravesical Therapy for Treatment of Urothelial Carcinoma of the Prostate

BACKGROUND

The optimal management of non-invasive (mucosal and/or ductal) urothelial carcinoma of the prostate remains elusive and there is a paucity of data to guide treatment.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to systematically review and synthesize treatment responses to conservative management of non-invasive prostatic urothelial carcinoma using intravesical therapy.

METHODS

A systematic literature search using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases from inception to November 2019 was performed. Risk of bias assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for non-randomised studies. Pooled estimates of complete response in the bladder and prostate and prostate only were performed using a random effects model. Pre-specified subgroup analyses were generated to assess differences in complete responses for: BCG therapy vs other agents, ductal vs mucosal involvement, CIS vs papillary tumors and TURP vs no TURP.

RESULTS

Nine studies including 175 patients were identified for inclusion in the systematic review and meta-analysis. All were retrospective case series and most evaluated response to BCG therapy. The pooled global complete response rate for intravesical therapy was 60%(95%CI: 0.48, 0.72), and for prostate 88%(95%CI: 0.81, 0.96). Pre-specified analyses did not demonstrate statistically significant differences between subgroups of interest.

CONCLUSIONS

Management of non-invasive prostatic urothelial carcinoma using intravesical therapy yields satisfactory results. Caution should be taken in treating patients with papillary tumors and ductal involvement, as data for these populations is limited. TURP may not improve efficacy, but is required for staging. Current recommendations are based on low quality evidence, and further research is warranted.

European Association of Urology Guidelines on Primary Urethral Carcinoma-2020 Update

CONTEXT

Primary urethral carcinoma (PUC) is a rare cancer accounting for <1% of all genitourinary malignancies.

OBJECTIVE

To provide updated practical recommendations for the diagnosis and management of PUC.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic search interrogating Ovid (Medline), EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews was performed.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Urothelial carcinoma of the urethra is the predominant histological type of PUC (54-65%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (16-22%) and adenocarcinoma (10-16%). Diagnosis of PUC depends on urethrocystoscopy with biopsy and urinary cytology. Pathological staging and grading are based on the tumour, node, metastasis (TNM) classification and the 2016 World Health Organization grading systems. Local tumour extent and regional lymph nodes are assessed by magnetic resonance imaging, and the presence of distant metastases is assessed by computed tomography of the thorax/abdomen and pelvis. For all patients with localised distal tumours (≤T2N0M0), partial urethrectomy or urethra-sparing surgery is a valid treatment option, provided that negative intraoperative surgical margins can be achieved. Prostatic Ta-Tis-T1 PUC can be treated with repeat transurethral resection of the prostate and bacillus Calmette-Guérin. In prostatic or proximal ≥ T2N0 disease, neoadjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy should be considered prior to radical surgery. All patients with locally advanced disease (≥T3N0-2M0) should be discussed within a multidisciplinary team. In men with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma, curative radiotherapy combined with radiosensitising chemotherapy can be offered for definitive treatment and genital preservation. In patients with local urethral recurrence, salvage surgery or radiotherapy can be offered. For patients with distant metastatic disease, systemic therapy based on tumour characteristics can be evaluated.

CONCLUSIONS

These updated European Association of Urology guidelines provide up-to-date guidance for the contemporary diagnosis and management of patients with suspected PUC.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Primary urethral carcinoma (PUC) is a very rare, but aggressive disease. These updated European Association of Urology guidelines provide evidence-based guidance for clinicians treating patients with PUC.

MRI of prostatic urethral mucinous urothelial carcinoma: Expanding the differential diagnosis for T2 hyperintense prostatic masses

We report the case of a 66-year-old previously healthy man presenting with blood and mucus in his urine. Cystoscopy revealed a mass in the prostatic urethra, and endoscopic biopsy showed adenocarcinoma in situ with mucinous features. Endorectal multiparametric prostate MRI demonstrated a 1.9 cm T2 hyperintense mass in the peripheral zone of the left prostatic apex with extension into the urethral lumen. No diffusion restriction or early enhancement was seen in the mass. Radical prostatectomy was performed, and final pathology demonstrated a mucin-producing urothelial adenocarcinoma arising from the prostatic urethra. The peripheral zone T2 hyperintense abnormality correlated with abundant pools of mucin extending into the prostatic stroma and surrounded by neoplastic prostatic glandular cells. We conclude prostatic urethral mucinous urothelial carcinoma should be included in the differential diagnosis for T2 hyperintense prostatic masses.

European Association of Urology Guidelines on Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer (TaT1 and Carcinoma In Situ) - 2019 Update

CONTEXT

This overview presents the updated European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), TaT1, and carcinoma in situ (CIS).

OBJECTIVE

To provide practical recommendations on the clinical management of NMIBC with a focus on clinical presentation and recommendations.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A broad and comprehensive scoping exercise covering all areas of the NMIBC guidelines has been performed annually since the last published version in 2017. Databases covered by the search included Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Libraries. Previous guidelines were updated, and the level of evidence and grade of recommendation were assigned.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Tumours staged as Ta, T1, and/or CIS are grouped under the heading of NMIBC. Diagnosis depends on cystoscopy and histological evaluation of the tissue obtained by transurethral resection (TURB) in papillary tumours or by multiple bladder biopsies in CIS. In papillary lesions, a complete TURB is essential for the patient's prognosis and correct diagnosis. Where the initial resection is incomplete, where there is no muscle in the specimen, or where a T1 tumour is detected, a second TURB should be performed within 2-6 wk. The risks of both recurrence and progression may be estimated for individual patients using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) scoring system. Stratification of patients into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups is pivotal to the recommendation of adjuvant treatment. In patients with tumours presumed to be at a low risk and in those presumed to be at an intermediate risk with a low previous recurrence rate and an expected EORTC recurrence score of <5, one immediate chemotherapy instillation is recommended. Patients with intermediate-risk tumours should receive 1 yr of full-dose bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) intravesical immunotherapy or instillations of chemotherapy for a maximum of 1 yr. In patients with high-risk tumours, full-dose intravesical BCG for 1-3 yr is indicated. In patients at the highest risk of tumour progression, immediate radical cystectomy should be considered. Cystectomy is recommended in BCG-unresponsive tumours. The extended version of the guidelines is available at the EAU website: https://uroweb.org/guideline/non-muscle-invasive-bladder-cancer/.

CONCLUSIONS

These abridged EAU guidelines present updated information on the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC for incorporation into clinical practice.

PATIENT SUMMARY

The European Association of Urology Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer (NMIBC) Panel has released an updated version of their guidelines, which contains information on classification, risk factors, diagnosis, prognostic factors, and treatment of NMIBC. The recommendations are based on the current literature (until the end of 2018), with emphasis on high-level data from randomised clinical trials and meta-analyses. Stratification of patients into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups is essential for deciding appropriate use of adjuvant intravesical chemotherapy or bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) instillations. Surgical removal of the bladder should be considered in case of BCG-unresponsive tumours or in NMIBCs with the highest risk of progression.

Primary urothelial carcinoma of the prostate: A rare case report

RATIONALE

Prostatic urothelial carcinoma is a rare disease. Medical misdiagnosis rates remain high because there are no specific clinical symptoms or imaging features, which decreases patient survival. We report a case of prostatic urethral cancer confirmed by transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy because of an abnormal digital rectal exam.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 55-year-old man was referred to our hospital due to lower urinary tract symptoms that lasted for 5 years.

DIAGNOSES AND INTERVENTIONS

On digital rectal examination, a hard and enlarged prostate was detected. Computed tomography, bone scintigraphy, and magnetic resonance imaging indicated benign prostatic hyperplasia. The patient underwent transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy. From the histopathological examination and immunohistochemical markers, a diagnosis of high-grade prostatic urothelial carcinoma was made. We excluded the possibility of urothelial cancer originating in the bladder lining after transurethral resection of the bladder. Radical cystoprostatectomy was performed, followed by 6 cycles of cisplatin and gemcitabine chemotherapy. Postoperative pathology showed primary urothelial carcinoma of the prostate.

OUTCOMES

The patient recovered smoothly after surgery. After a 6-month follow-up, no evidence of local recurrence or metastatic disease was found.

LESSONS

This case reminds clinicians that, for middle-aged men with suspicious digital rectal examinations, a diagnosis of prostatic urothelial carcinoma should be considered. Initial radical surgery followed by combination chemotherapy is suggested for therapeutic management.

The occult urothelial cancer

Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is the tumor that most frequently affects the urinary tract. The most common location is in the bladder; the diagnosis, as the follow-up, is based on urine cytology, endoscopic, and radiological examinations. Urinary cytology is an important non invasive tool used in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with TCC. A positive urine cytology result is highly predictive of the presence of TCC, even in the presence of normal cystoscopy, because malignant cells may appear in the urine long time before any cystoscopically visible lesion becomes apparent. The presence of a positive urinary cytology, in the absence of clinical or endoscopic evidence of a TCC, can identify an occult urothelial cancer, located in any site of the urinary tract (upper urinary tract, bladder, prostatic urethra). Most of the urothelial tumors of the renal pelvis and ureters are diagnosed by radiological examinations, but we can observe a high rate of false negatives. In order to improve the diagnostic role of urinary cytology and other conventional examinations, numerous molecular markers have been identified; however, the real clinical application remains unclear. Photodynamic diagnosis and narrow band imaging (NBI) cystoscopy increase the diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic examinations in the presence of lesions not easily detectable. The aim of this review is to analyze the current diagnostic standards in the presence of occult urothelial cancer.

Recommendations for the improvement of bladder cancer quality of care in Canada: A consensus document reviewed and endorsed by Bladder Cancer Canada (BCC), Canadian Urologic Oncology Group (CUOG), and Canadian Urological Association (CUA), December 2015

This initiative was undertaken in response to concerns regarding the variation in management and in outcomes of patients with bladder cancer throughout centres and geographical areas in Canada. Population-based data have also revealed that real-life survival is lower than expected based on data from clinical trials and/or academic centres. To address these perceived shortcomings and attempt to streamline and unify treatment approaches to bladder cancer in Canada, a multidisciplinary panel of expert clinicians was convened last fall for a two-day working group consensus meeting. The panelists included urologic oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, patient representatives, a genitourinary pathologist, and an enterostomal therapy nurse. The following recommendations and summaries of supporting evidence represent the results of the presentations, debates, and discussions. Methodology

Laparoscopic radical cystectomy with prostate capsule sparing. Initial experience

INTRODUCTION

In 2008, our department introduced a modified technique of laparoscopic radical cystectomy in which the prostatic capsule is spared in selected patients with bladder cancer. The different series published are mostly using the standard open procedure. The aim of this study is to describe this technique using the laparoscopic approach and present our preliminary results.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study includes 20 patients selected by clinical analysis and imaging criteria operated using laparoscopic radical cystectomy with prostate capsule sparing at our department in the period between 2008 and 2012.

RESULTS

Patient mean age was 58 years. Mean operative time was 390 minutes. Median follow-up was 36 months. No patient had bladder cancer recurrence. Only one patient died of disease progression, as the pathological findings was a pT3 pN1 Mx. Mean PSA before surgery: 1.3 ng/ml (03-2), mean PSA after surgery 1.0 ng/ml (0.08-1.7). No patients had prostate cancer recurrence. Satisfactory daytime and night-time continence was achieved. 90% of patients have sexual function preserved.

CONCLUSIONS

Prostate-sparing radical cystectomy remains one of the most controversial topics in urology today. The laparoscopic approach could be an alternative to conventional radical cystoprostatectomy in well selected patients, done in experienced institutions in order to find better functional results, with a low disease progression and recurrence rate.

Challenges in the pathological reporting of urothelial carcinoma involving prostatic transurethral resection specimens within a single institution

AIM

Primary bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC) may involve the prostate with differing management depending on whether tumour is in situ or invades the prostatic subepithelium or fibromuscular stroma. We aim to understand challenges in reporting UC within prostate transurethral resection (TUR).

METHODS

A retrospective review from 2007 to 2010 identified prostate TUR performed for primary bladder UC.

RESULTS

25.1% of cystoprostatectomy patients (60/239) had a prior prostate TUR; 129 patients had a prostate TUR for UC and 50.4% (65/129) were given a neoplastic diagnosis. Prostatic fibromuscular stroma was present in 84.6% of cases, with a comparable rate among surgeons. Diagnostic concordance of UC versus a non-neoplastic diagnosis was 96.7%, with rare cases initially diagnosed as non-neoplastic having in situ UC on review. Of reports with invasive tumour, 19.4% did not specify extent of invasion (e.g., bladder muscularis propria, prostate fibromuscular stroma) and 13.9% had discordant extent of invasion on review. Terminology typically used for bladder (lamina propria/muscularis propria) was found in 23.1% of reports without explicit reference to the bladder or prostate.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals difficulties in reporting UC within prostatic TUR specimens. We recommend documenting tumour extent and referencing the organ of origin if ambiguous anatomical terms are used.

EAU guidelines on non-muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder: update 2013

CONTEXT

The first European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines on bladder cancer were published in 2002 [1]. Since then, the guidelines have been continuously updated.

OBJECTIVE

To present the 2013 EAU guidelines on non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Literature published between 2010 and 2012 on the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC was systematically reviewed. Previous guidelines were updated, and the levels of evidence and grades of recommendation were assigned.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Tumours staged as Ta, T1, or carcinoma in situ (CIS) are grouped as NMIBC. Diagnosis depends on cystoscopy and histologic evaluation of the tissue obtained by transurethral resection (TUR) in papillary tumours or by multiple bladder biopsies in CIS. In papillary lesions, a complete TUR is essential for the patient's prognosis. Where the initial resection is incomplete, where there is no muscle in the specimen, or where a high-grade or T1 tumour is detected, a second TUR should be performed within 2-6 wk. The risks of both recurrence and progression may be estimated for individual patients using the EORTC scoring system and risk tables. The stratification of patients into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups is pivotal to recommending adjuvant treatment. For patients with a low-risk tumour, one immediate instillation of chemotherapy is recommended. Patients with an intermediate-risk tumour should receive one immediate instillation of chemotherapy followed by 1 yr of full-dose bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) intravesical immunotherapy or by further instillations of chemotherapy for a maximum of 1 yr. In patients with high-risk tumours, full-dose intravesical BCG for 1-3 yr is indicated. In patients at highest risk of tumour progression, immediate radical cystectomy should be considered. Cystectomy is recommended in BCG-refractory tumours. The long version of the guidelines is available from the EAU Web site: http://www.uroweb.org/guidelines/.

CONCLUSIONS

These abridged EAU guidelines present updated information on the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC for incorporation into clinical practice.

PATIENT SUMMARY

The EAU Panel on Non-muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer released an updated version of their guidelines. Current clinical studies support patient selection into different risk groups; low, intermediate and high risk. These risk groups indicate the likelihood of the development of a new (recurrent) cancer after initial treatment (endoscopic resection) or progression to more aggressive (muscle-invasive) bladder cancer and are most important for the decision to provide chemo- or immunotherapy (bladder installations). Surgical removal of the bladder (radical cystectomy) should only be considered in patients who have failed chemo- or immunotherapy, or who are in the highest risk group for progression.

EAU guidelines on primary urethral carcinoma

CONTEXT

The European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines Group on Muscle-Invasive and Metastatic Bladder Cancer prepared these guidelines to deliver current evidence-based information on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with primary urethral carcinoma (UC).

OBJECTIVE

To review the current literature on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with primary UC and assess its level of scientific evidence.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic literature search was performed to identify studies reporting urethral malignancies. Medline was searched using the controlled vocabulary of the Medical Subject Headings database, along with a free-text protocol.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Primary UC is considered a rare cancer, accounting for <1% of all malignancies. Risk factors for survival include age, tumour stage and grade, nodal stage, presence of distant metastasis, histologic type, tumour size, tumour location, and modality of treatment. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging is the preferred method to assess the local extent of urethral tumour; computed tomography of the thorax and abdomen should be used to assess distant metastasis. In localised anterior UC, urethra-sparing surgery is an alternative to primary urethrectomy in both sexes, provided negative surgical margins can be achieved. Patients with locally advanced UC should be discussed by a multidisciplinary team of urologists, radiation oncologists, and oncologists. Patients with noninvasive UC or carcinoma in situ of the prostatic urethra and prostatic ducts can be treated with a urethra-sparing approach with transurethral resection and bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). Cystoprostatectomy with extended pelvic lymphadenectomy should be reserved for patients not responding to BCG or as a primary treatment option in patients with extensive ductal or stromal involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2013 guidelines document on primary UC is the first publication on this topic by the EAU. It aims to increase awareness in the urologic community and provide scientific transparency to improve outcomes of this rare urogenital malignancy.

The conundrum of prostatic urethral involvement

The presence and depth of urothelial cancer involvement in the prostatic urethra can significantly affect the management of a patient with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. This article presents an overview of the incidence, diagnosis, management, and follow-up of urothelial cancer.

[Prostatic involvement by urothelial carcinoma in patients with bladder cancer and their implications in the clinical practice]

OBJECTIVES

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is a multifocal disease that may develop in any location of the urinary tract, including the prostate. We analyze the types of prostate involvement due to UC, their diagnosis, risk factors and the clinical implications of this entity.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Analysis of original, review articles and publications related to prostate involvement due to UC. The study included works published in the period of 1985-2011, most of which were obtained from the search in PubMed.

RESULTS

Prostate involvement due to UC has been observed frequently in both non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) series and prolonged follow-up (39%) as in radical cystectomy series (15-48%). Prostatic involvement may occur in the mucosa and ducts (superficial involvement) or prostate stroma (invasive involvement), a fact that has prognostic and therapeutic implications. Stromal involvement may have both a bladder and intraurethral origin. Carcinoma in situ, multifocality, bladder neck/trigone cancer, and previous history of tumor recurrence are the factors that have been m ore consistently associated to prostate involvement due to UC. The incidence of prostatic involvement by UC in patients with NMIBC increases over time when risk factors exist. In these cases, a prostatic urethral biopsy should be performed during the follow-up. Conservative treatment with transurethral resection and BCG is possible in case of superficial involvement of the prostatic urethra, assuming its risk of progression. Patients subjects to cystectomy and with prostate involvement due to UC have a greater risk of urethral recurrence. The elevated incidence of prostatic adenocarcinoma and prostatic involvement by UC in cystectomy specimens makes it necessary to be very selective when indicating prostate-sparing cystectomy. Chemotherapy may be an option in an attempt to improve survival of patients with prostatic stromal involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Prostatic involvement by UC is not uncommon and it has important implications in the management of patients with NMIBC and in those who have an indication for or have undergone radical cystectomy.

[EAU guidelines on non-muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder, the 2011 update]

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE

To present the 2011 European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines on non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Literature published between 2004 and 2010 on the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC was systematically reviewed. Previous guidelines were updated, and the level of evidence and grade of recommendation were assigned.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Tumours staged as Ta, T1, or carcinoma in situ (CIS) are grouped as NMIBC. Diagnosis depends on cystoscopy and histologic evaluation of the tissue obtained by transurethral resection (TUR) in papillary tumours or by multiple bladder biopsies in CIS. In papillary lesions, a complete TUR is essential for the patient's prognosis. Where the initial resection is incomplete or where a high-grade or T1 tumour is detected, a second TUR should be performed within 2-6 wk. In papillary tumours, the risks of both recurrence and progression may be estimated for individual patients using the scoring system and risk tables. The stratification of patients into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups (separately for recurrence and progression) is pivotal to recommending adjuvant treatment. For patients with a low risk of tumour recurrence and progression, one immediate instillation of chemotherapy is recommended. Patients with an intermediate or high risk of recurrence and an intermediate risk of progression should receive one immediate instillation of chemotherapy followed by a minimum of 1 yr of bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) intravesical immunotherapy or further instillations of chemotherapy. Papillary tumours with a high risk of progression and CIS should receive intravesical BCG for 1 yr. Cystectomy may be offered to the highest risk patients, and it is at least recommended in BCG failure patients.

CONCLUSIONS

These abridged EAU guidelines present updated information on the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC for incorporation into clinical practice.

Current management of muscle-invasive bladder cancer

Management of muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) has changed little in the last twenty years. The gold standard treatment is still cystectomy, but it has a significant negative impact on quality of life. Bladder-preservation strategies can be used in some cases but patient selection for this approach remains unclear. New chemotherapy and biologic agents in combination with surgery or radiotherapy could improve results and these possibilities are currently under investigation.

[Management of the male urethra before and after cystectomy: from the prophylactic urethrectomy to the intraoperative frozen section biopsy of the urethral margin]

CONTEXT

Decision making regarding the urethra before and after radical cystectomy due to urothelial carcinoma has always been controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the changes produced in the management of the urethra from the beginning of the cystectomy up to the present moment.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Analysis of original articles and reviews obtained through a search in PubMed, related with the risk factors of urethral recurrence (UR) and with the management of the urethra in patients subjected to radical cystectomy.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

At first, many authors recommended urethrectomy simultaneously with cystectomy. The identification of risk factors of the bladder tumor related with the appearance of UR limited the indication of prophylactic urethrectomy in patients with multifocal disease and with prostate tumor involvement. The development of orthotopic bladder substitutes (OBS) complicated the situation. The involvement the prostatic urethral tumor was maintained as the principal risk factor for UR, which then gave importance to its pre-cystectomy staging. Series of OBS observed a lower incidence of UR regarding patients with skin derivations, even in cases with prostatic urethral involvement. Prostatic urethral involvement stopped being a contraindication for OBS when the frozen section biopsy of the urethral margin was negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Currently, most authors agree that the intraoperative frozen section biopsy of the urethral margin will determine whether an OBS or urethrectomy should be performed. In spite of this, we have very few series in which this approach has been systematically used and with sufficient follow-up.

EAU guidelines on non-muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder, the 2011 update

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE

To present the 2011 European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines on non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Literature published between 2004 and 2010 on the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC was systematically reviewed. Previous guidelines were updated, and the level of evidence (LE) and grade of recommendation (GR) were assigned.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Tumours staged as Ta, T1, or carcinoma in situ (CIS) are grouped as NMIBC. Diagnosis depends on cystoscopy and histologic evaluation of the tissue obtained by transurethral resection (TUR) in papillary tumours or by multiple bladder biopsies in CIS. In papillary lesions, a complete TUR is essential for the patient's prognosis. Where the initial resection is incomplete or where a high-grade or T1 tumour is detected, a second TUR should be performed within 2-6 wk. In papillary tumours, the risks of both recurrence and progression may be estimated for individual patients using the scoring system and risk tables. The stratification of patients into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups-separately for recurrence and progression-is pivotal to recommending adjuvant treatment. For patients with a low risk of tumour recurrence and progression, one immediate instillation of chemotherapy is recommended. Patients with an intermediate or high risk of recurrence and an intermediate risk of progression should receive one immediate instillation of chemotherapy followed by a minimum of 1 yr of bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) intravesical immunotherapy or further instillations of chemotherapy. Papillary tumours with a high risk of progression and CIS should receive intravesical BCG for 1 yr. Cystectomy may be offered to the highest risk patients, and it is at least recommended in BCG failure patients. The long version of the guidelines is available from the EAU Web site (www.uroweb.org).

CONCLUSIONS

These abridged EAU guidelines present updated information on the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC for incorporation into clinical practice.

Premalignant and malignant prostate lesions: pathologic review

BACKGROUND

High-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) is currently the only recognized premalignant lesion of prostatic carcinoma.

METHODS

This review article discusses HGPIN, its link to prostatic adenocarcinoma, and the significance of its presence on needle biopsy. The criteria and clinical impact of the diagnosis of atypical small acinar proliferation on needle biopsy are reviewed. Certain subtypes of prostate cancer that are not associated with HGPIN are of clinical relevance, and the unique clinicopathologic features of these subtypes are discussed. Histologic variants of prostatic adenocarcinoma with distinct cell types are also described.

RESULTS

HGPIN is the only known pathologic factor currently available to distinguish which patients may be at risk for detecting carcinoma on repeat biopsy. Histologic variants are recognized due to the inference of a particular Gleason grade pattern associated with the cell type, hence affecting prognosis. Typically, pure forms of these histologic variants are associated with worse prognosis due to the associated high Gleason grades.

CONCLUSIONS

HGPIN has a strong association with acinar-type prostatic adenocarcinoma. HGPIN and acinar-type prostatic adenocarcinoma both show similar molecular alterations, providing further evidence of their association.

Advanced carcinoma of the prostatic urethra in a patient with marked response to chemotherapy, leading to preservation of the bladder

We performed transurethral resection of the prostate (TUR-P) for a 66-year-old man with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Pathological examination diagnosed poorly differentiated urothelial carcinoma of the urethra with broad prostatic permeation. Random bladder biopsies showed no malignancy, but a second TUR-P revealed urothelial carcinoma in the prostate and bladder neck. Computed tomography (CT) showed lymph node metastases from para-aortic to right/left external iliac and left obturator nodes, so clinical stage T3N2M0 carcinoma of the prostatic urethra was diagnosed. Given the presence of lymph node metastases, neoadjuvant chemotherapy using cisplatin 70 mg/m(2), ifosfamide 1.2 g/m(2) and docetaxel 70 mg/m(2) (PIT) was considered. After chemotherapy, CT showed complete response (CR) of all lymph nodes. Local control in the bladder was considered to be good, so total prostatectomy and retroperitoneal lymph node dissection was selected instead of total cystoprostatectomy. Pathological findings of surgical specimens showed no residual carcinoma in the prostatic urethra or lymph nodes, although prostatic adenocarcinoma was recognized. No recurrences or metastases have been encountered as of 3 years and 5 months since surgery.

Staging and reporting of urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder

Significant progress has been made in the standardization of bladder neoplasm classification and reporting. Accurate staging using the American Joint Committee on Cancer/International Union Against Cancer (AJCC/UICC) TNM system is essential for patient management, and has been reinforced by clinical evidence in recent years. It is now recognized that 'superficial' bladder carcinomas are a heterogenous group of tumors with diverse biological and clinical manifestations. The term 'superficial,' therefore, is no longer used for bladder tumor nomenclature. Recognition of diagnostic pitfalls associated with lamina propria invasion is critical for the evaluation of bladder tumor specimens. Neither the 1973 nor the 2004 WHO grading system appears to be useful for predicting the clinical outcome of invasive urothelial carcinoma. This review will discuss recent progress and controversial issues on the staging and substaging of bladder carcinomas. Essential elements for handling and reporting of bladder tumor specimens will also be discussed.

Pathologic assessment and clinical significance of prostatic involvement by transitional cell carcinoma and prostate cancer

The prostate is commonly involved by transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) in patients with bladder cancer. A number of clinicopathologic factors including multifocal carcinoma in situ, tumor location, and tumor stage are associated with prostatic TCC (pTCC). In addition, the manner and extent of pathologic examination also makes a significant difference in the detection rate. Distinct patterns and extent of pTCC have been described and are associated with pathologic stage of the primary bladder tumor as well as prognosis. Preoperative transurethral biopsy of the prostatic urethra is a sensitive and accurate method to detect pTCC and is helpful for surgical planning. Given the high incidence of pTCC and prostatic adenocarcinoma, radical cystoprostatectomy is the treatment of choice for loco-regional control for patients with T4a disease. Further studies are necessary to establish the role of neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy for patient with prostatic stroma invasion.

Prostatic transitional cell carcinoma: pathologic features and clinical management

Prostatic involvement by transitional cell carcinoma (pTCC) in patients with bladder cancer is a frequent finding, particularly in patients with high-grade invasive tumor and urothelial carcinoma in situ. Various patterns and levels of prostatic involvement have been described, and their impact in patients' management and their prognosis recognized. The role of prostatic urethral biopsy and intraoperative frozen section in the management of bladder cancer, tailoring to the bladder tumor stage is still not well defined and universally accepted. This review discusses the current understanding of the biology and histological patterns of pTCC and their clinical significance and management options. A rational approach for management of pTCC in patients with bladder cancer will be proposed on the basis of our experience and our review of literature.

High-Grade Urothelial Carcinoma of the Prostate on FDG PET-CT

We report the PET-CT appearance of a high-grade prostatic urothelial carcinoma in a 68-year-old man with a long history of urothelial carcinoma. The patient was initially diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma in the left ureter, status postleft nephrourethrectomy. He was subsequently, 11 years later, diagnosed with low-grade urothelial carcinoma involving the bladder for which he received monthly Bacillus Calmette-Guerin treatment. Three months after the diagnosis of the bladder tumor, he was found to have biopsy-proven high-grade urothelial carcinoma of the prostate for which he was referred to have a PET-CT scan to evaluate for distant metastasis.

Clinicopathologic Features of Prostate Adenocarcinoma Incidentally Discovered at the Time of Radical Cystectomy: An Evidence-Based Analysis

OBJECTIVES

To review all relevant features of incidentally discovered prostate cancer (PCa) in patients undergoing radical cystectomy for bladder cancer: incidence, pathologic characteristics, clinical significance, and implications for its management.

METHODS

A structured literature review through a MEDLINE search was performed.

RESULTS

The frequency of incidentally discovered PCa in cystoprostatectomy specimens is extremely variable because of several factors, particularly the pathology sampling. The relationship among clinically, incidentally, and autopsy-detected cancer is uncertain. The definition of clinically significant cancer varies among published reports and remains inadequate for clinical application. High-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia is a marker for concurrent PCa and the risk depends more on the volume than on its absolute presence. Outcome of patients with unsuspected PCa after cystoprostatectomy relies mostly on the bladder tumor.

CONCLUSIONS

Incidental PCa in patients with bladder cancer is highly variable and with an unclear clinical significance. For those who are candidates for prostate-sparing surgery, it seems reasonable to include a routine prostate biopsy in the standard preoperative work-up irrespective of prostate-specific antigen values. In the absence of sufficient data to make firm recommendations, when PCa is incidentally discovered, PCa surveillance should be part of the follow-up scheme after radical cystectomy.

Urinary Diversion

A consensus conference convened by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Société Internationale d'Urologie (SIU) met to critically review reports of urinary diversion. The world literature on urinary diversion was identified through a Medline search. Evidence-based recommendations for urinary diversion were prepared with reference to a 4-point scale. Many level 3 and 4 citations, but very few level 2 and no level 1, were noted. This outcome supported the clinical practice pattern. Findings of >300 reviewed citations are summarized. Published reports on urinary diversion rely heavily on expert opinion and single-institution retrospective case series: (1) The frequency distribution of urinary diversions performed by the authors of this report in >7000 patients with cystectomy reflects the current status of urinary diversion after cystectomy for bladder cancer: neobladder, 47%; conduit, 33%; anal diversion, 10%; continent cutaneous diversion, 8%; incontinent cutaneous diversion, 2%; and others, 0.1%. (2) No randomized controlled studies have investigated quality of life (QOL) after radical cystectomy. Such studies are desirable but are probably difficult to conduct. Published evidence does not support an advantage of one type of reconstruction over the others with regard to QOL. An important proposed reason for this is that patients are subjected preoperatively to method-to-patient matching, and thus are prepared for disadvantages associated with different methods. (3) Simple end-to-side, freely refluxing ureterointestinal anastomosis to an afferent limb of a low-pressure orthotopic reconstruction, in combination with regular voiding and close follow-up, is the procedure that results in the lowest overall complication rate. The potential benefit of "conventional" antireflux procedures in combination with orthotopic reconstruction seems outweighed by the higher complication and reoperation rates. The need to prevent reflux in a continent cutaneous reservoir is not significantly debated, and this should be done. (4) Most reconstructive surgeons have abandoned the continent Kock ileal reservoir largely because of the significant complication rate associated with the intussuscepted nipple valve.