Lower tract neoplasm: Update of imaging evaluation

Eur J Radiol. 2017 Dec:97:119-130. doi: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2017.10.019.

Abstract

Cancers of the lower urinary tract can arise from the bladder, urachus or urethra. Urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB) is the most common of these. The presentation of bladder, urachal and urethral cancers can differ but many result in hematuria as an initial indication. The diagnosis and staging of these cancers often necessitate radiologic imaging often in the form of cross-section CT urography or MR urography. The following article reviews the specific nature of lower tract cancers and their imaging.

Keywords: Computed tomography (CT); Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); UCB; Urachal cancer; Urethral cancer; Urothelial cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / pathology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Hematuria / etiology
  • Hematuria / pathology
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Male
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography / methods
  • Prognosis
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
  • Ultrasonography / methods
  • Urethra / pathology
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Urography / methods

Supplementary concepts

  • Urachal cancer