A glance at imaging bladder cancer

ConclusionFor initial diagnosis of BCa, cystoscopy is generally performed. However, cystoscopy cannot accurately detect carcinoma in situ and cannot distinguish benign masses from malignant lesions. CT is used in two modes, CT and computed tomographic urography, both for diagnosis and for staging of BCa. However, they cannot differentiate T1 and T2 BCa. MRI is performed to diagnose invasive BCa and can differentiate muscle invasive bladder carcinoma from non-muscle invasive bladder carcinoma. However, CT and MRI have low sensitivity for nodal staging. For nodal staging, PET/CT is preferred. PET/MRI provides a better differentiation of normal and pathologic structures as compared with PET/CT. Nonetheless none of the approaches can address all issues related for the management of BCa. Novel imaging methods that target specific biomarkers, image BCa early and accurately, and stage the disease are warranted.
Source: Clinical and Translational Imaging - Category: Radiology Source Type: research