Role of Imaging in the Local Staging of Urothelial Carcinoma of the Bladder

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this article is to review imaging modalities used in local staging of bladder urothelial carcinoma.

Conclusion: Urothelial carcinoma is the most common histologic subtype of bladder cancer, and accurate local staging of this tumor is crucial for management. Traditionally, local staging relied on biopsy. With increasing accuracy of imaging modalities and techniques, imaging also plays an important role in the multidisciplinary care of patients with this disease.

Keywords: MDCT; MRI; cancer staging; transitional cell carcinoma; urinary bladder; urothelial carcinoma.