Does cystoscopy method affect the investigation of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Cystoscopic investigation to identify associated histological findings of increased mast cells in the detrusor muscle has been recommended by the European Society for the Study of Bladder Pain Syndrome (ESSIC) in the investigation of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC). The aim of this study was to identify if the cystoscopy approach impacts the biopsy results when investigating women presenting with symptoms of BPS/IC.

METHODS

We performed a single-centre retrospective analysis of 300 bladder biopsy reports from 2015 to 2018 from women undergoing cystoscopy for BPS/IC. Biopsies obtained using closed cup forceps through a flexible (FC) or rigid cystoscope (RC) were compared.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight FC biopsies were compared with 242 RC biopsies. FC biopsies had a smaller mean diameter (1.6 mm vs 2.9 mm p < 0.01) and volume (4.1 mm3 vs 9.6 mm3 p < 0.001) compared with RC biopsies. There was no significant difference in the histological depth of sampling to the muscularis propria. A total of 292 samples had CD117 immunohistochemical staining for mast cell count (MCC) analysis. The MCC/mm2 was significantly lower in FC biopsies (p < 0.01). Sixteen percent of FC samples compared with 60% of RC samples had a high MCC >28/mm2 (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in positive microbiology culture between FC (21%) and RC (28%) sampling.

CONCLUSION

Rigid and flexible cystoscopy can be used to investigate BPS/IC as recommended by international societies. However, the biopsy method impacts the mast cell count analysis, which can influence diagnosis and management. Therefore, RC would be the optimal investigation.

Rationalising the use of investigation for urinary tract infections: Analysis of 700 patients and proposal for a diagnostic algorithm

AIMS

To evaluate the diagnostic yield of investigations performed on patients with a history of urinary tract infections (UTI).

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted on patients who underwent cystoscopy and imaging for a history of UTI between 2014 and 2019 in a single UK teaching hospital. Data were collected on demographics, cystoscopy and radiological findings requiring further management. The cohort was stratified by age, gender and a confirmed history of recurrent UTI (rUTI). The subsequent algorithm was re-tested in a second cohort to validate its use.

RESULTS

Seven hundred patients were included in the primary analysis-427 female and 273 males. Three hundred and thirty-one met the criteria of rUTI. The median age was 64 years (18-97). Imaging abnormalities were equally frequent in men 6.3% (15/241) and women 8% (30/380) and the majority noted in patients aged ≥55 years, 30/45 (66.7%). Amongst those who did not meet the definition of rUTI, abnormal imaging was identified in 5%-7% regardless of age group and gender. Cystoscopy abnormalities (n = 24) were twice more likely in males, 5.5%(15/273) than females, 2%(9/427). About 88%(21/24) were identified in patients ≥55 years. There were no positive findings in women <55 years. Applying baseline imaging but confining cystoscopy to those aged ≥55 years and men with a confirmed history of rUTI would have saved 44% of procedures, missed no abnormalities with an overall diagnosis detection rate of 9.8% (69/700). This algorithm was validated in a separate cohort of 63 patients; applying it would have saved 46% (29/63) of cystoscopies with a positive diagnostic rate of 9.5% and no missed findings.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge this is one of the largest studies reporting the outcomes of investigations for UTI and rUTI. Our result suggests that imaging is a useful baseline assessment, but cystoscopy should be limited to specific subgroups. We propose and validate a simple decision algorithm to manage investigations for referrals for UTI in secondary care.

Antireflux endoscopic injection therapy in post-pubertal patients via techniques adopted for the dilated ureteral orifice: a retrospective single-center study

BACKGROUND

To investigate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic injection therapy for vesicoureteral reflux in post-pubertal patients with dilated ureteral orifice via modified hydrodistension implantation techniques.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical records including operational procedure and clinical course of all consecutive patients over 12 years old with a history of injection therapy. Endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer was performed under hydrodistension implantation technique with some modifications in order to inject through dilated ureteral orifice align with the intramural ureter. Technical selections were done according to hydrodistension grade of the ureteral orifice. Voiding cystourethrography was evaluated at 3 months postoperatively. Hydronephrosis was evaluated using ultrasonography preoperatively until 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

From 2016 to 2019, 12 patients (all female, 16 ureteral units; median age 32 [range 15-61] years) underwent endoscopic injection therapy at one of our institutions. We have identified grade II vesicoureteral reflux in 5 ureters, grade III in 8, and grade IV in 3 ureters. Grade 3 ureteral-orifice dilation were presented in 12 ureters (75%), grade 2 in 3 and grade 1 in 1 ureter in the present cases. Postoperatively, vesicoureteral reflux was diminished to grade 0 in 12 ureteral units (75%), decreased to grade I in 3 (9%), and remained grade III in 1 (6%). Three patients reported dull flank pain for several days postoperatively and there was 1 case of acute pyelonephritis. Temporary hydronephrosis was confirmed in 3 ureteral units (19%) at 1 month postoperatively. Median follow-up duration was 23 (range 13-63) months long. Although, 3 patients were experienced f-UTI 1-2 times, repeated VCUG showed no VUR recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

According to hydrodistension grade of the ureteral orifice, endoscopic injection therapy via modified hydrodistension implantation technique is an effective and safe treatment for vesicoureteral reflux in post-pubertal female patients with dilated ureteral orifice. While ureteral deformities or a history of anti-reflux surgery may increase the risks, these can be managed with appropriate methods that ensure sufficient mound appearance and height.

Check cystoscopy in the management of anterior urethral valves in a cohort of pediatric patients

INTRODUCTION

Anterior urethral valves (AUV) are a rare cause of lower urinary tract obstruction which could progress to renal damage, Clinical presentation varies according with patient's age and severity of obstruction, but, in most cases, diagnosis is based on voiding cysto-urethrogram (VCUG). To date, the treatment of choice is endoscopic ablation even if approved guidelines about the overall management of AUVs, including the recognition and treatment of residual valves, are not available.

OBJECTIVE

We describe our protocol for AUV treatment based on primary endoscopic valve ablation followed by check cystoscopy 15 days later.

STUDY DESIGN

Medical records of 5 patients with AUVs admitted from 2008 to 2018 to our Pediatric Urology Unit were retrospectively reviewed. Blood tests, urinalysis, renal US and VCUG were performed in all children, while urodynamic evaluation was performed in the 3/5 patients who could void spontaneously. All patients underwent endoscopic valves ablation and after 15 days after a second look cystoscopy was performed. Follow up was based on clinical and radiological evaluation with US, urinalysis and blood tests. Postoperative non-invasive urodynamic studies were performed in the 3/5 patient toilet-trained patients and VCUG was performed in 1/5 patient.

RESULTS

and Discussion: At primary endoscopic ablation cystoscopy revealed AUVs in the penile urethra in three patients, in the penoscrotal urethra in one case, in the bulbar urethra in another case. In 3/5 patients check cystoscopy found residual valves and a second endoscopic ablation was performed. All patients achieved symptoms release and improved urodynamic parameters. No intra or post-operative complication were reported. The assessment of residual valves is variable in literature and it is usually described for posterior urethral valves (PUVs). Few series report the use of VCUG within the first week after valve ablation, our experience instead suggests that performing a second look cystoscopy, is very effective to evaluate the presence of residual AUVs and eventually proceed with further ablation.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic ablation is the gold standard treatment for AUV, but residual valves management is not clearly defined. According to our experience, a check cystoscopy 15 days after primary ablation allows to identify and treat possible residual valves showing good results in terms of safety and efficacy.

Comparison of pain, quality of life, lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual function between flexible and rigid cystoscopy in follow-up male patients with non muscle invasive bladder cancer: A randomized controlled cross section single blind study

OBJECTIVES

To compare pain, quality of life (QoL), sexual function and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) between rigid (RC) and flexible cystoscopy (FC).

METHODS

Forty-one patients who were planned control cystoscopies were enrolled the study. At the first cystoscopy, 20 patients (Group 1) and other 21 patients (Group 2) were performed by flexible (15.5 Fr) and rigid cystoscope (15.5 Fr), respectively. At the second cystoscopies, the patients in group 1 and group 2 were performed by rigid and flexible cystosacope, respectively. In all the patients, pain was measured with visual pain scale (VPS) shortly after cystoscopy. Also, SF, QoL and LUTS were assessed by IIEF, SF-36 and MLUTS forms, respectively.

RESULTS

While 22 of the patients preferred FC, the other 19 preferred RC (P > 0.05). There were no statistical differences between VPS, IIEF, SF-36 and MLUTS scores of the two groups. In multivariate analysis regarding the quality of life, although sexual function, pain and cystoscopy type did not affect QoL, voiding symptoms affected independently QoL. After both cystoscopy type, IIEF, SF-36 and MLUTS scores did not change statistically.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that the effects on pain, sexual function, QoL and LUTS of RC and FC were similar. In general, cystoscopy did not affect negatively on QoL, sexual function and LUTS of the patients.

Antegrade endoscopic dilatation as an alternative approach to primary obstructive megaureter

OBJECTIVES

Congenital primary obstructive megaureter (POM) is caused by ureterovesical junction stenosis, reduced peristalsis, and the resulting dilatation. Even though ureteral re-implantation remains the current gold standard technique, retrograde dilatation is considered as an effective therapeutic alternative with good results and growing proponents - to the extent it has become the technique of choice in some healthcare facilities. The objective was to present an alternative approach for treatment purposes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is the case of a 5-month-old infant with POM and pyonephrosis requiring nephrostomy and intravenous antibiotic therapy. Endoscopic dilatation was carried out by means of a percutaneous drainage in an antegrade fashion and did not require cystoscopy.

RESULTS

The procedure was uneventful. During follow-up, ureterohydronephrosis decreased, while ureteral dilatation persisted to a lesser extent with an adequate peristalsis and absence of secondary VUR. The patient has had no symptoms after an 11-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

POM antegrade dilatation is an effective alternative in selected patients as it makes the pathology disappear.

Giant neonatal hydronephrosis of the upper pole of a complete duplicated renal system

Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in the upper pole of a complete duplicated renal system is extremely rare. We report a case that was diagnosed prenatally and we review 10 cases published in the literature. Diagnoses of adrenal hematoma and cystic neuroblastoma were suspected on prenatal ultrasound, based on the severity of dilatation and the difficulty of identifying the exact origin of this anomaly. Neonatal magnetic resonance imagery (MRI) was subsequently able to show a normal adrenal gland. Surgical management is similar to that of a single-system pyeloureteral junction obstruction. Since this situation is very rare, we believe cystoscopy can be useful to confirm diagnosis of UPJO associated with complete duplication, especially in the absence of preoperative MRI. Among the 11 surgical cases previously published, seven patients underwent pyeloplasty and four heminephrectomy.

Delayed presentation of postcaesarean section vesicouterine fistula repaired robotically

A premenopausal patient in her late forties presented with a 15-year history of urinary incontinence starting shortly after a caesarean section performed for her fourth delivery and more recently associated episodic light haematuria and passage of clots per vagina. The haematuria was intermittent over several months and associated with per-vaginal bleeding. She had symptomatic anaemia. Flexible cystoscopy and MRI showed a vesicouterine fistula. She underwent a robotic-assisted hysterectomy and multi-layered repair of the bladder with omental interposition. She remained in the hospital for 4 days, though recovered well and underwent catheter removal at 14 days following a normal cystogram. At 3 months, she was well with no incontinence or urinary symptoms. This case demonstrates the need for vigilance in assessing patients with persistent incontinence, particularly in the context of prior caesarean section. It highlights the feasibility of robotic surgery for correcting these defects in a society where minimally invasive surgery is becoming the norm, and cosmesis is a priority for patients.

Diagnostic yield of repeat evaluation for asymptomatic microscopic hematuria after negative initial workup

PURPOSE

The American Urological Association guideline for asymptomatic microhematuria recommends in patients with a negative initial workup, repeat workup should be considered for those with persistent/recurrent microhematuria. However, there is little data on the yield of repeat evaluation. Our hypothesis was that repeat workup yields a low detection rate of urologic malignancy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients at our institution who underwent microhematuria workup with cystoscopy and upper tract imaging from May 2010 to June 2016. Microhematuria was defined as ≥3 RBCs/HPF on a properly collected specimen in the absence of a benign cause. Demographics, age, smoking history, history of radiation, and findings on repeat cystoscopy and imaging were collected. Our primary endpoint was a new diagnosis of urologic malignancy.

RESULTS

Our initial cohort included 1,332 patients, of whom 21 were diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma and 7 with suspicious renal masses on initial workup. A total of 637 patients with negative initial workup had persistent/recurrent microhematuria. Repeat cystoscopy was performed in 161 (25%) patients at a median of 39 months, and repeat upper tract imaging was performed in 317 (50%) patients at a median of 39 months. Overall, repeat cystoscopy revealed new bladder cancer in 2 (1.2%) patients and repeat imaging revealed new suspicious renal mass in 4 (1.3%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed a low number of newly diagnosed malignancies among patients with persistent/recurrent asymptomatic microhematuria who had a prior negative workup. Additional research is required to determine the utility of a repeat AMH workup.

Assessment of a clinical pathway for investigation of haematuria that reduces the need for cystoscopy

AIM

To evaluate prospectively a clinical pathway for investigation of haematuria that involves an initial screening using a urinary biomarker of bladder cancer (Cxbladder Triage™ (CxbT)) in combination with either a renal ultrasound or a computed tomography imaging. Only test-positive patients are referred for specialist assessment and flexible cystoscopy.

METHODS

The clinical outcomes of 884 patients with haematuria who presented to their general practitioner were reviewed. Outcome measurements included the findings of laboratory tests, imaging, cystoscopies, specialist assessment and histology.

RESULTS

Forty-eight transitional cell carcinomas (TCC) and three small cell carcinomas were diagnosed in the study cohort. The clinical pathway missed a solitary, small, low-risk TCC. When combined, imaging and CxbT had a sensitivity of 98.1% and a negative predictive value of 99.9% to detect a bladder cancer. Follow-up for a median of 21 months showed no further new cases of bladder cancer had occurred in the patient cohort. Review of all new bladder cancers diagnosed in the 15 months following the study showed that none had been missed by haematuria assessment using the clinical pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of CxbT and imaging reliably identifies patients with haematuria who can be managed safely in primary care without the need for a secondary care referral and a flexible cystoscopy.

Risk Factors for Intraoperative Bladder Perforation at the Time of Midurethral Sling Placement

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate patient-specific and perioperative factors that may be predictive of bladder perforation during midurethral sling placement.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of women who underwent a midurethral sling procedure at our institution between 2013 and 2017 was completed. All cases with bladder perforation were included. Patient demographics and perioperative factors were explored for associations with perforation. Bivariate analysis was used to compare baseline characteristics between those with and without perforation. Logistic regression modeling was used to identify predictors of perforation and associations between bladder perforation and postoperative sequelae.

RESULTS

Four hundred and ten women had a urethral sling procedure at our institution between 2013 and 2017. Of these, 35 (9%) had evidence of bladder perforation on cystoscopy. This rate was higher for retropubic slings (15%) compared to transobturator slings (2%). Those with a perforation were younger (54 vs 61 years, P= .004) and had a lower average BMI (24.1 kg/m² vs 26.3 kg/m², P = .022). Other risk factors included lack of pre-existing apical prolapse (11% vs 4%, P = .012) and concomitant urethrolysis (27% vs 8%, P = .024). In multivariable analysis, age, BMI, and sling type were significantly associated with perforation. In univariate analysis, perforation was associated with postoperative lower urinary tract symptoms (OR 2.3, P = .21) and urinary tract infection within 30 days of surgery (OR 2.2, P = .047).

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative bladder perforation was associated with younger patient age and lower BMI. Additionally, bladder perforation is a risk factor for postoperative urinary tract infection and lower urinary tract symptoms.

Bladder Cancer: A Review

IMPORTANCE

Bladder cancer is a common malignancy in women and is the fourth most common malignancy in men. Bladder cancer ranges from unaggressive and usually noninvasive tumors that recur and commit patients to long-term invasive surveillance, to aggressive and invasive tumors with high disease-specific mortality.

OBSERVATIONS

Advanced age, male sex, and cigarette smoking contribute to the development of bladder cancer. Bladder tumors can present with gross or microscopic hematuria, which is evaluated with cystoscopy and upper tract imaging depending on the degree of hematuria and risk of malignancy. Non-muscle-invasive tumors are treated with endoscopic resection and adjuvant intravesical therapy, depending on the risk classification. Enhanced cystoscopy includes technology used to improve the detection of tumors and can reduce the risk of recurrence. Patients with high-risk non-muscle invasive tumors that do not respond to adjuvant therapy with the standard-of-care immunotherapy, bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG), constitute a challenging patient population to manage and many alternative therapies are being studied. For patients with muscle-invasive disease, more aggressive therapy with radical cystectomy and urinary diversion or trimodal therapy with maximal endoscopic resection, radiosensitizing chemotherapy, and radiation is warranted to curb the risk of metastasis and disease-specific mortality. Treatment of patients with advanced disease is undergoing rapid changes as immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors, targeted therapies, and antibody-drug conjugates have become options for certain patients with various stages of disease.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Improved understanding of the molecular biology and genetics of bladder cancer has evolved the way localized and advanced disease is diagnosed and treated. While intravesical BCG has remained the mainstay of therapy for intermediate and high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, the therapeutic options for muscle-invasive and advanced disease has expanded to include immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibition, targeted therapies, and antibody-drug conjugates.

Trans-uretero-cystic external urethral stent for urinary diversion in pediatric laparoscopic pyeloplasty: A novel approach

PURPOSE

We present a new approach for urine drainage in pediatric patients following laparoscopic pyeloplasty, the trans-uretero-cystic external urethral stent (TEUS).

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 85 children who underwent laparoscopic pyeloplasty from July 2015 to June 2017. The included children were assigned to group A (double-J stent) or group B (TEUS). In group A, the double-J stent was removed by a cystoscopy under anesthesia after 1 month, while in group B, the external stent was removed after 5 to 7 days. We examined the durations of operation, hospital stay and the frequency of stent-related complications including urinary leakage, stent dislocation, stent occlusion, and urinary tract infection.

RESULTS

The operation time was significantly longer for patients in group B than for those in group A. No significant difference was observed between the groups regarding stent-related complications. In group A, 4 patients need auxiliary stent re-insertion for the management of complications, 2 developed urinary tract infection, and 2 had stent occlusion. In group B, none needed auxiliary stent re-insertion for complications and avoided re-operation.

CONCLUSIONS

In children, the outcome of external stent implantation was similar to that using double-J stent, and the use of the former approach may be beneficial for younger children.

Application of artificial neural networks for automated analysis of cystoscopic images: a review of the current status and future prospects

BACKGROUND

Optimal detection and surveillance of bladder cancer (BCa) rely primarily on the cystoscopic visualization of bladder lesions. AI-assisted cystoscopy may improve image recognition and accelerate data acquisition.

OBJECTIVE

To provide a comprehensive review of machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL) and convolutional neural network (CNN) applications in cystoscopic image recognition.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A detailed search of original articles was performed using the PubMed-MEDLINE database to identify recent English literature relevant to ML, DL and CNN applications in cystoscopic image recognition.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

In total, two articles and one conference abstract were identified addressing the application of AI methods in cystoscopic image recognition. These investigations showed accuracies exceeding 90% for tumor detection; however, future work is necessary to incorporate these methods into AI-aided cystoscopy and compared to other tumor visualization tools. Furthermore, we present results from the RaVeNNA-4pi consortium initiative which has extracted 4200 frames from 62 videos, analyzed them with the U-Net network and achieved an average dice score of 0.67. Improvements in its precision can be achieved by augmenting the video/frame database.

CONCLUSION

AI-aided cystoscopy has the potential to outperform urologists at recognizing and classifying bladder lesions. To ensure their real-life implementation, however, these algorithms require external validation to generalize their results across other data sets.

Bladder diary characteristics and progress in patients with painful bladder syndrome

OBJECTIVES

The utility and importance of the 3-day Bladder Diary (3dBD) for the diagnosis and management of patients with Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS) was analyzed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Epidemiological, observational, longitudinal and multicentric study, carried out under usual conditions of clinical practice. 37 Functional Urology and Urodynamics units included 329 women with BPS according to the criteria of the International Society for the Study of Bladder Pain Syndrome (ESSIC). Of all patients included, 319 were evaluable (79 with new diagnosis and 240 in follow-up). Sociodemographic and clinical variables were collected together with variables related to cystoscopy, biopsy and physical examination and BPS diagnostic tests. Patients completed the "Bladder Pain/Interstitial Cystitis - Symptom Score"(BPIC-SS), "Patient Global Impression of Severity" (PGI-S) and "EuroQoL-5D-5L" (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaires besides of the 3dBD. Results of the 3dBD were described according to urinary symptoms and the symptoms reported through questionnaires, in addition their association was studied.

RESULTS

In anamnesis, 74.9% of patients reported increased Urinary Frequency (UF), 59.6% urgency and72.7% nocturia compared to 88.7%, 55.9% and 73.6% as reflected in the 3dBD. The highest correlation indexes (CI) were obtained between BPIC-SS and UF/24h (0.45) and between UF/24 h and PGI-S (-0.36) and EQ-5D-5L (-0.33). Mean voiding volume was higher in patients with better BPIC-SS score (163.72 (SD 68.02ml) y 154.1 (SD 70.63 ml)), at 6 and 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

3dBD has proven to be a useful and complementary tool to the anamnesis in the evaluation of the repercussion of pain in the micturition pattern and for the differential diagnosis of the symptoms of BPS patients. It also allows to obtain complete and objective information about the symptoms. Although it is necessary to incorporate other tools that complete the clinical characterization of these patients.

Raman chemometric urinalysis (Rametrix) as a screen for bladder cancer

Bladder cancer (BCA) is relatively common and potentially recurrent/progressive disease. It is also costly to detect, treat, and control. Definitive diagnosis is made by examination of urine sediment, imaging, direct visualization (cystoscopy), and invasive biopsy of suspect bladder lesions. There are currently no widely-used BCA-specific biomarker urine screening tests for early BCA or for following patients during/after therapy. Urine metabolomic screening for biomarkers is costly and generally unavailable for clinical use. In response, we developed Raman spectroscopy-based chemometric urinalysis (Rametrix™) as a direct liquid urine screening method for detecting complex molecular signatures in urine associated with BCA and other genitourinary tract pathologies. In particular, the Rametrix^TM screen used principal components (PCs) of urine Raman spectra to build discriminant analysis models that indicate the presence/absence of disease. The number of PCs included was varied, and all models were cross-validated by leave-one-out analysis. In Study 1 reported here, we tested the Rametrix™ screen using urine specimens from 56 consented patients from a urology clinic. This proof-of-concept study contained 17 urine specimens with active BCA (BCA-positive), 32 urine specimens from patients with other genitourinary tract pathologies, seven specimens from healthy patients, and the urinalysis control Surine^TM. Using a model built with 22 PCs, BCA was detected with 80.4% accuracy, 82.4% sensitivity, 79.5% specificity, 63.6% positive predictive value (PPV), and 91.2% negative predictive value (NPV). Based on the number of PCs included, we found the Rametrix^TM screen could be fine-tuned for either high sensitivity or specificity. In other studies reported here, Rametrix^TM was also able to differentiate between urine specimens from patients with BCA and other genitourinary pathologies and those obtained from patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). While larger studies are needed to improve Rametrix^TM models and demonstrate clinical relevance, this study demonstrates the ability of the Rametrix^TM screen to differentiate urine of BCA-positive patients. Molecular signature variances in the urine metabolome of BCA patients included changes in: phosphatidylinositol, nucleic acids, protein (particularly collagen), aromatic amino acids, and carotenoids.

Seamless post-operative removal of JJ stents in the paediatric population: Securing the JJ stent to the tip of the urethral balloon catheter avoids a further operation

In children, removal of a post-procedural JJ stent requires a further cystoscopy under general anaesthetic. We describe securing the distal end of the ureteric stent to the tip of a balloon catheter at the end of the primary procedure. Once post-operative oedema has subsided, the stent is removed seamlessly in tandem with the balloon catheter. This can be done on the ward by nursing staff without the need for general anaesthesia or sedation. Our experience in the first 10 successive patients (aged 1.6-16.3 years) demonstrates this technique to be safe, easy to learn and well tolerated.

Patient Perspectives on the Implementation of Risk-Aligned Bladder Cancer Surveillance: Systematic Evaluation Using the Tailored Implementation for Chronic Diseases Framework

PURPOSE

Many patients living with bladder cancer do not undergo surveillance that is aligned with their risk for recurrence or progression, which exposes them to unnecessary risk and burden of procedures. To implement risk-aligned surveillance as recommended by multiple guidelines, we need to understand patient-, provider-, and system-level factors contributing to the delivery of risk-aligned surveillance. In this study, we sought to systematically assess patient-level factors.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

Guided by the Tailored Implementation for Chronic Diseases framework, we conducted semistructured interviews with 22 patients with bladder cancer undergoing surveillance cystoscopy procedures at three facilities within the Department of Veterans Affairs. Patients were sampled using quantitative data on bladder cancer risk category (low v high) and on surveillance category (aligned v not aligned with cancer risk). Interview transcripts were analyzed using a priori codes from the Tailored Implementation for Chronic Diseases framework. Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated by cross-tabulating determinants across risk and surveillance categories.

RESULTS

Participants included seven low-risk and 15 high-risk patients; 10 underwent risk-aligned surveillance and 12 did not. In mixed-methods analyses, perception of risk appropriately differed by risk but not by surveillance category. Participants understood the recommended surveillance schedule according to their risk category. Participants emphatically expressed that adhering to providers' recommendations is prudent; intentions to adhere did not vary across risk and surveillance categories.

CONCLUSION

Participants intended to adhere to providers' recommendations and strongly endorsed the importance of adherence. These findings suggest implementation strategies to improve risk-aligned surveillance may be most effective when targeting provider- and system-level factors rather than patient-level factors.

Urothelial carcinoma of the bladder with abundant myxoid stroma: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Abundant myxoid stroma rarely occurs in urothelial carcinomas (UCs). We report an 83-year-old woman with UC of the urinary bladder with abundant myxoid stroma. We summarized the clinicopathological features, immunophenotype, diagnosis, and differential diagnosis of this type of bladder cancer, in order to improve the understanding of surgeons and pathologists.

PATIENT CONCERNS

An 83-year-old female presented with hematuria and frequent micturition, without odynuria, hypogastralgia, or fever.

DIAGNOSIS

The computed tomography scan demonstrated extensive tumors in the anterior wall of the bladder and a soft tissue shadow anterior to the sacrum. Cystoscopy showed massive wide-based tumors located on the anterior and lateral walls of the bladder, with no tumor involving the bladder neck. Multiple punch biopsies were performed, the histologic evaluation of which revealed a poorly differentiated invasive UCs with myxoid stroma.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient underwent a laparoscopic radical cystectomy and cutaneous ureterostomy.

OUTCOMES

The patient discharged without any complications. Histologic evaluation revealed an invasive UC; the most prominent feature was an abundant myxoid stroma that covered approximately 80% of the lesion and the tumor cells were arranged in cords, small nests, or a sheet-like structure. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells were positive for CK19, CK20, VEGF, EGFR, p63, 34βE12, MUC1, GATA3, uroplakin3, and TopII (rate = 15%), while the Ki-67 proliferation index was 10%. The myxoid stroma in the mesenchyme stained positively with AB-PAS and colloidal iron, and some tumor cells stained positive for colloidal iron. Considering the histologic, histochemical, and immunohistochemical findings, a diagnosis of UC with abundant myxoid stroma was made. After surgery, the regular follow-up was continued in clinic, and there was no recurrence for 2 years.

CONCLUSION

Morbidity associated with UC with abundant myxoid stroma is very low. The diagnosis mainly depends on histopathological and immunohistochemical findings.

Relevance of the Endoscopic Evaluation in the Diagnosis of Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relevance of the endoscopic evaluation in clinically suspected cases of Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis (BPS/IC), using ESSIC criteria, established in 2008 by the European Society for the Study of Interstitial Cystitis (ESSIC).

METHODS

We included all patients who underwent endoscopic evaluation between January 01, 2015 and October 31, 2019 for clinical suspicion of BPS/IC. Collected data included demographic and baseline clinical features, endoscopic appearance (prior and after hydrodistension), and bladder wall biopsy results, both defined according to ESSIC criteria. Data were cross tabulated to define ESSIC phenotypes, while subgroups and multivariate analyses were carried out to assess the influence of clinical variables on ESSIC phenotypes.

RESULTS

Fifty-two subjects were included, mainly women (92%). Median age at evaluation was 45 (32.9-58.2) years. At hydrodistension, 21 patients (42%) had positive and 29 (58%) had negative findings. Grade 2-3 glomerulations were found in 18 patients, while Hunner lesions were reported only in 1 patient. Positive results at biopsy were found in 24 pts (51.1%), while negative in 23 (48.9%). Overall, the positive and negative concordance between hydrodistension and biopsy results was 78%. No significant differences in ESSIC subtypes were found after stratification based on clinical features and at multivariate analysis. Retrospective design is the main limitation.

CONCLUSION

Cystoscopy with hydrodistension and biopsy do have a role in the diagnostic pathway of BPS/IC. However, results should be considered in the clinical context of the individual patient.

Anterior urethral strictures and retrograde urethrography: An update for radiologists

Urethral strictures are a relatively common affliction of men with the anterior urethra being most frequently affected. Anterior urethral strictures (AUS) typically present with obstructive voiding symptoms and appropriate management is often based on findings at cystourethroscopy and retrograde urethrography (RUG). In particular, determining the number, length, severity and location of urethral strictures is of pivotal importance. The accurate reporting of findings at RUG is dependent on a thorough knowledge of the urethral anatomy as well as recognizing periurethral structures that may opacify during the procedure. Obtaining a diagnostic, high-quality RUG study requires adherence to proper fluoroscopic technique as well as recognizing when to adjust or modify the technique to address pitfalls that may be encountered during the procedure. AUS may be treated by a variety of procedures including urinary diversion, transurethral procedures such as urethral dilation and internal urethrotomy and open surgical repair techniques termed urethroplasty. Some authors have recommended urethroplasty as first-line treatment given the high rate of stricture recurrence with other treatment options. Buccal mucosal grafts are a mainstay of modern urethroplasty. Familiarity with the commonly performed urethroplasty procedures allows radiologists to accurately assess the post-operative urethra thus guiding the management of these patients.

[In memory of professor L. Kasper urologist-innovator and prominent scientist (on the 160th anniversary of his birth and the 60th anniversary of the death)]

The main dates of life and scientific and practical activity of Leopold Kasper are presented. The scientific views and thoughts of the scientist are analyzed. It is shown that after graduating in 1883 from the University of Berlin he specialized in urology under supervision of G. Thompson, P. Freyer, F. Guyon, I. Albarran and L. Dittel. L. Kasper was the founder of a large German urological school, the author of a large number of scientific works, including study dedicated to cystoscopy, endoscopic procedures, functional diagnosis of renal disorders, treatment of renal tuberculosis and urolithiasis, prostate diseases, transurethral galvanocaustics of bladder tumors, etc. He designed a special catheterization cystoscope (1895), which allowed for the first time to study differential functional ability of each kidney. It greatly facilitated the recognition and treatment of surgical pathologies of kidneys and upper urinary tract. In addition, L. Kasper improved and implemented into practice a functional renal test with fluoridzine and cryoscopic examination of urine obtained from each kidney separately after ureteral catheterization.

[Method of complex therapy of chronic cystitis]

AIM

To assess the effectiveness of hydroxyethyldimethyldihydropyrimidine (trade name Xymedone) in the treatment of chronic recurrent cystitis in women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 30 patients (the main group) with a confirmed diagnosis of chronic cystitis (HC) with a recurrence rate of at least 3 times a year, the average age of the patients was 46.0+/-2.7 years. The control group consisted of 30 age-comparable patients with a similar diagnosis, who underwent standard treatment for this disease. The article presents the results on the effectiveness of the use of hydroxyethyldimethyldihydropyrimidine (Xymedone) in the treatment of HC after anti-inflammatory and local treatment with collargol instillations, and the terms for the regeneration of the bladder mucosa are determined. To patients of the main group Xymedone was prescribed in a dose of 500 mg 3 times a day for 30 days after the completion of local treatment. Control cystoscopy was performed 15 and 30 days after the start of the drug, 3 days after its withdrawal.

RESULTS

The planned treatment was completed by all 30 patients of the main group. After 15 days from the date of administration of Xymedone most of patients had no low urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), in comparison with the control group. Cystoscopy performed at this time allowed to establish a positive trend while taking Xymedone in the process of restoring the bladder mucosa after influence of collargol. Hyperemia in the neck and triangle area persisted in most patients, and only in 8 (26.6%) it decreased. Treatment with Xymedone was continued. After 30 days of drug intake laboratory parameters were according to normal values, a significant increase in functional capacity of the bladder (189,5+/-19,8 ml) and volume of urination (147,9+/-26,7 ml.) was detected, the thickness of the bladder wall in a state of filling in the averages was 3.5+/- 0.3 mm, which corresponded to the norm. Cystoscopy, performed 3 days after canceling of the drug, showed a slight hyperemia in the bladder neck area only in one patient. Recurrence of HC in the control group occurred within 6 months after completion of treatment in 15 (51%) women. In the main group there were no relapses during two years of dynamic follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Hydroxyethyldimethyldihydropyrimidine, included in the therapy of HC, accelerates the regeneration of the bladder mucosa after local treatment of recurrent cystitis and shortens the period of its recovery, significantly lengthens the period of persistent remission.