Primary carcinomas of the urethra

Abstract

Urethral carcinomas are rare, and information reported in the literature is relatively limited. In this review, the authors present separate discussions on the pathology of carcinomas occurring in men and women with emphasis on the diverse histological subtypes. Because tumor type and prognosis correspond to anatomic location, normal anatomy and histology have been given due consideration. Of particular note in the recent literature is an expanded experience with clear cell carcinoma, a distinctive tumor primarily of the female urethra that has generated considerable interest with respect to its prognosis and relationship to urethral diverticulum. The authors use this review to illustrate several features of the pathology of these neoplasms synthesize the literature, and place into perspective the clinical, pathological, and prognostic features.