Long-term Outcomes of Augmentation Cystoplasty in Genitourinary Tuberculosis in Adults: A 12-year Follow-up Experience at a Tertiary Care Center

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term effectiveness and consequences of augmentation cystoplasty in adult patients with small capacity bladder due to genitourinary tuberculosis (GUTB).

METHODS

After approval of the institutional ethical committee, we retrospectively analyzed the database of adult patients with small capacity bladder due to GUTB treated by augmentation cystoplasty from January 2010 to December 2022 at our center. The patients were followed up at 6 weeks postoperatively, then every 3 months for first year and 6 months in second year, and then annually. Patients were assessed for symptoms, renal function, blood biochemistry levels, and ultrasound KUB at each follow-up visit.

RESULTS

A total of 40 patients underwent augmentation cystoplasty were included. All patients underwent augmentation cystoplasty either with ileum (n = 35) or sigmoid colon (n = 5). On long-term follow-up, there was statistically significant improvement in bladder capacity, decrease in voiding frequency (P = .00), decrease in eGFR (P = .02) and increase in serum creatinine (P = .02). Significant complications were wound infection 4 (10%), intestinal obstruction 1(2.5%), urinary tract infection 6 (15%), bladder stone 2 (5%), mucus retention 3 (7.5%), hypocalcemia with metabolic acidosis 2 (5%) and need of intermittent catheterization in 11 (27.5%) patients.

CONCLUSION

Multidrug therapy with judicious reconstructive surgery is the optimal treatment modality for GUTB with cicatrization sequelae. In GUTB, augmentation cystoplasty is a safe procedure and strict long-term follow-up is needed to prevent complications.

Carboplatin in Patients With Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Harboring Somatic or Germline Homologous Recombination Repair Gene Mutations: Phase II Single-Arm Trial

BACKGROUND

Approximately 20%-25% of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) harbor a deleterious germline or somatic mutation in the homologous recombination repair (HRR) pathway genes, which is involved in the repair of double-stranded DNA damage. Half of these mutations are germline, while the remaining are exclusively somatic. While polyadenosine 5'diphosphoribose [poly (ADP-ribose)] polymerase inhibitors, such as olaparib and rucaparib, are effective in this subgroup, their widespread use is limited due to the associated high cost, especially in resource-constrained settings. Notably, platinum agents like carboplatin have exquisite sensitivity to cells with defective DNA repair machinery. Carboplatin, a conventional, inexpensive chemotherapeutic agent, offers a potential alternative treatment in such patients. Several retrospective small case series support this hypothesis. However, there are no prospective clinical trials of carboplatin in patients with mCRPC with HRR mutations.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective is to assess the objective response rate of 3 weekly carboplatin treatments in patients with mCRPC harboring deleterious mutations in the HRR pathway genes and previously treated with a taxane or a novel antiandrogen agent. The secondary objectives include progression-free survival, health-related quality of life, and safety profile of carboplatin.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with mCRPC harboring HRR pathway mutations previously treated with docetaxel or novel antiandrogen agents (abiraterone, enzalutamide, apalutamide, or darolutamide) or both will be eligible. Genes involved directly or indirectly in the HRR pathway will be tested. In this single-arm phase II study, we will screen approximately 200 patients to enroll 49 patients, and carboplatin (dosing at the area under curve=5) will be administered every 3 weeks until progression or intolerable side effects. The primary end point will be assessed as the proportion of patients with a reduction of serum prostate-specific antigen by more than 50% from enrollment. Secondary outcomes include progression-free survival-soft-tissue disease progression (by response evaluation criteria in solid tumors, version 1.1, and bone lesion progression using Prostate Cancer Clinical Trials Working Group 3 criteria), health-related quality of life during carboplatin treatment using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate questionnaire and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer questionnaire and safety profile of carboplatin (National Cancer Institute's Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0).

RESULTS

The trial started enrollment in September 2023. This trial is ongoing, and 12 patients have been recruited to date. All 49 participants will be enrolled according to plan.

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective phase II trial represents a critical step toward addressing the therapeutic gap in patients with mCRPC harboring HRR pathway mutations, particularly in demographic regions with limited access to poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors. Outcomes from this study will inform clinical practice and guide future phase III randomized trials, ultimately improving patient outcomes globally.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trials Registry of India CTRI/2023/04/051507; https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?EncHid=Njc0NjU=&Enc=&userName=.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/54086.

Intravoxel incoherent motion and diffusion kurtosis imaging and their machine-learning-based texture analysis for detection and assessment of prostate cancer severity at 3 T

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the role of combined intravoxel incoherent motion and diffusion kurtosis imaging (IVIM-DKI) and their machine-learning-based texture analysis for the detection and assessment of severity in prostate cancer (PCa).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty-eight patients underwent MRI on a 3 T scanner after giving informed consent. IVIM-DKI data were acquired using 13 b values (0-2000 s/mm2) and analyzed using the IVIM-DKI model with the total variation (TV) method. PCa patients were categorized into two groups: clinically insignificant prostate cancer (CISPCa) (Gleason grade ≤ 6) and clinically significant prostate cancer (CSPCa) (Gleason grade ≥ 7). One-way analysis-of-variance, t test, and receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to measure the discriminative ability to detect PCa using IVIM-DKI parameters. A chi-square test was used to select important texture features of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and IVIM-DKI parameters. These selected texture features were used in an artificial neural network for PCa detection.

RESULTS

ADC and diffusion coefficient (D) were significantly lower (p < 0.001), and kurtosis (k) was significantly higher (p < 0.001), in PCa as compared with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and normal peripheral zone (PZ). ADC, D, and k showed high areas under the curves (AUCs) of 0.92, 0.89, and 0.88, respectively, in PCa detection. ADC and D were significantly lower (p < 0.05) as compared with CISPCa versus CSPCa. D for detecting CSPCa was high, with an AUC of 0.63. A negative correlation of ADC and D with GS (ADC, ρ = -0.33; D, ρ = -0.35, p < 0.05) and a positive correlation of k with GS (ρ = 0.22, p < 0.05) were observed. Combined IVIM-DKI texture showed high AUC of 0.83 for classification of PCa, BPH, and normal PZ.

CONCLUSION

D, f, and k computed using the IVIM-DKI model with the TV method were able to differentiate PCa from BPH and normal PZ. Texture features of combined IVIM-DKI parameters showed high accuracy and AUC in PCa detection.

Role of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Evaluation of Cystic Renal Mass

OBJECTIVES

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) allows excellent delineation of perfusion in septa and nodules without exposure to ionizing radiation or nephrotoxic contrast media. The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of CEUS for the assessment of cystic renal masses and compare its diagnostic performance with that of CECT.

METHODS

Exactly 40 patients diagnosed to have cystic renal masses on CECT scan were prospectively evaluated with CEUS and were assigned a Bosniak class. Based on results of final histopathology and clinical follow-up, internal validity of both CEUS and CECT was evaluated, including agreement between these two modalities.

RESULTS

Out of the 40 patients (mean size 3.1 ± 2.5 cm), 23 patients had benign lesions and 17 patients had malignant lesions. For CEUS, the sensitivity and negative predictive value was 100%, the specificity and positive predictive value was 73.9%. For CECT, the sensitivity and negative predictive value were 88.2 and 83.3%, respectively, whereas the specificity and positive predictive value was 87 and 90.9%, respectively. Both imaging modalities had similar accuracy with fair to good agreement with the final diagnosis (Κ = 0.71 and 0.75 for CEUS and CECT, respectively). Concordance between CEUS and CECT was seen in 29 patients (72.5%) with fair agreement between the two modalities (K = 0.66).

CONCLUSION

CEUS has comparable accuracy with CECT and could be used as screening modality to rule out the presence of complex cystic renal masses without exposure of nephrotoxic contrast media and ionizing radiation.

Impact of forced diuresis at two different time points on pelvic imaging in prostatic carcinoma with 68 Ga-PSMA PET/CT

OBJECTIVE

We compared diagnostic quality of 68 Ga-PSMA PET/CT imaging focused on the pelvic structures using two furosemide protocols in two different groups of patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 55 patients with prostate cancer were retrospectively enrolled in the study. Out of 55, 31 patients were in group 1 (median age: 66 years, Range 44-78 years) in which furosemide injection was given after completion of whole-body 68 Ga-PSMA PET/CT scan and 24 patients were in group 2 (median age: 63.5 years, range: 50-82 years) in which it was given along with the 68 Ga-PSMA injection. In both groups, an initial time point scan (T0 scan) and a delayed time point scan (T1scan) were done. The images were analyzed qualitatively as well as quantitatively.

RESULTS

Quantitatively there was no statistically significant difference between the SUVmax and T:B of prostatic lesion and seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) in both the groups at two time points ( P  > 0.05). Early furosemide injection caused a washout of the urinary bladder radiotracer concentration in significantly higher number of patients in group 2 (62.5% vs. 6.45% patients, P  < 0.001). There was significant clearance of radiotracer activity from the ureters in group 2 (SUVmax: 9.28 vs. 3.09, P  = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

The simultaneous furosemide and 68 Ga-PSMA injection can reduce the urinary excretion of the tracer and improve the diagnostic confidence of prostatic lesion, SVI and lymph nodal metastasis, along with reducing the scanning time and radiation burden, making this protocol an effective alternative to the present protocol of delayed furosemide injection.

Developing Standard Treatment Workflows-way to universal healthcare in India

Primary healthcare caters to nearly 70% of the population in India and provides treatment for approximately 80-90% of common conditions. To achieve universal health coverage (UHC), the Indian healthcare system is gearing up by initiating several schemes such as National Health Protection Scheme, Ayushman Bharat, Nutrition Supplementation Schemes, and Inderdhanush Schemes. The healthcare delivery system is facing challenges such as irrational use of medicines, over- and under-diagnosis, high out-of-pocket expenditure, lack of targeted attention to preventive and promotive health services, and poor referral mechanisms. Healthcare providers are unable to keep pace with the volume of growing new scientific evidence and rising healthcare costs as the literature is not published at the same pace. In addition, there is a lack of common standard treatment guidelines, workflows, and reference manuals from the Government of India. Indian Council of Medical Research in collaboration with the National Health Authority, Govt. of India, and the WHO India country office has developed Standard Treatment Workflows (STWs) with the objective to be utilized at various levels of healthcare starting from primary to tertiary level care. A systematic approach was adopted to formulate the STWs. An advisory committee was constituted for planning and oversight of the process. Specialty experts' group for each specialty comprised of clinicians working at government and private medical colleges and hospitals. The expert groups prioritized the topics through extensive literature searches and meeting with different stakeholders. Then, the contents of each STW were finalized in the form of single-pager infographics. These STWs were further reviewed by an editorial committee before publication. Presently, 125 STWs pertaining to 23 specialties have been developed. It needs to be ensured that STWs are implemented effectively at all levels and ensure quality healthcare at an affordable cost as part of UHC.

Anatomical approach to PCNL: concept of ideal puncture zone in a 3D perspective

To describe a concept of ideal 'puncture zone' as against any single ideal 'puncture tract' for percutaneous nephro-lithotomy (PCNL) and present our results. Through this narrative, we aim to reduce the gaps in inter-understanding of an erstwhile description of ideal tract and real-life puncture making. The puncture zone principle was applied for our novel puncture making technique during PCNL. The largest imaginary cone that can fit into a respective calyx, with its tip in the pelvis defines the 'puncture zone' for that calyx. This concept allows fine-tuning of the ideal puncture tract based upon the desired corresponding manipulation zone and also shifts the focus of puncture making to infundibulum anatomy from the tip of calyx. The surgical technique and retrospective review of 136 cases done between 2015 and 2021 using this concept are presented. Primary outcome included stone-free rate, pseudo-aneurysm and blood transfusion at 3 months of follow-up. 33 cases had multiple (> 3) stones, 21 only calyceal/infundibular stones, eight partial staghorn and 12 were complete staghorn stones. Mean stone size was 29 ± 15 (Range: 5-53) mm. Complete clearance was achieved in 127 cases, four of which required two tracts. Blood transfusion was required in one case. No pseudo-aneurysms were encountered. The puncture zone concept has provided good results in our hands. It may help easier understanding of PCN puncture making and provides a background for reconciliation between description of an ideal tract and practical puncturing techniques used by different surgeons.

Quality of life assessment in testicular non-seminomatous germ cell tumour survivors

PURPOSE

Patients with Germ cell tumours (GCT) are at risk of long-term toxicities due to multimodality therapy. It is debatable whether there is an impact on the quality of life(QoL) of GCT survivors.

METHODS

A case-control study was conducted at a tertiary care centre in India, using the EORTC QLQ C30 questionnaire, to compare the QoL between GCT survivors(disease free > 2 years) and healthy matched controls. A multivariate regression model was used to identify factors affecting QoL.

RESULTS

A total of 55 cases and 100 controls were recruited. Cases had a median age of 32 years (interquartile range, IQR 28-40 years), ECOG PS of 0-1(75%), advanced stage III (58%), chemotherapy (94%) and 66% were > 5 years from diagnosis. The median age of controls: 35 years (IQR 28-43 years). A statistically significant difference was seen for emotional (85.8 ± 14.2 vs 91.7 ± 10.4, p 0.005), social(83.0 ± 22.0 vs 95.2 ± 9.6, p < 0.001) and global scales (80.4 ± 21.1 vs 91.3 ± 9.7, p < 0.001). Cases had more nausea and vomiting(3.3 ± 7.4 vs 1.0 ± 3.9, p 0.015), pain(13.9 ± 13.9 vs 4.8 ± 9.8, p < 0.001), dyspnea(7.9 + 14.3 vs 2.7 ± 9.1, p 0.007), and appetite loss(6.7 ± 14.9 vs 1.9 ± 7.9, p 0.016) and greater financial toxicity(31.5 ± 32.3 vs 9.0 ± 16.3, p < 0.001). Adjusting for age, performance status, BMI, stage, chemotherapy, RPLND, recurrent disease, and time since diagnosis, no predictive variables were significant.

CONCLUSION

There is a detrimental impact of history of GCT in long term survivors of GCT.

Association of heavy metals and trace elements in carcinoma urinary bladder: A case-controlled study

Introduction

Abnormal levels of heavy metals (HM) and trace elements (TE) affect body metabolism and can induce carcinogenesis. This study aims to evaluate the role of HM and TE in carcinoma urinary bladder (CAUB).

Methods

Patients with biopsy-proven CAUB (n = 100) were taken as the study group, while age-and sex-matched healthy volunteers were taken as control (n = 100). Blood and urine samples were compared for Arsenic (As), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Selenium (Se), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), and Mercury (Hg) levels. Serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels were assessed to know the redox status between the two groups.

Results

A significantly higher blood level of As, Mn, and Pb was observed in CAUB cases as compared to controls. Blood Se level was significantly lower in CAUB patients. On comparing urinary levels, CAUB patients had a higher As, Mn, and Pb levels compared to controls. Further, 68% and 59% of patients had their blood and urinary HM and TE levels above the permitted level, respectively. CAUB cases also had a lower GSH-Px (113.5 ± 44.7 vs. 163.9 ± 120.5, P = 0.0002), lower SOD levels (11.35 ± 5.6 vs. 13.75 ± 3.9, P = 0.008), and a higher LPO levels (15.5 ± 14.7 vs. 11.18 ± 11.2, P = 0.02) in the serum.

Conclusions

A significantly higher concentration of As, Mn, and Pb was noted in the blood and urine of CAUB patients compared to controls. CAUB cases also had lower serum GSH-Px and SOD levels with a concomitant increased serum LPO assay suggesting underlying oxidative stress.

A Large Contemporary Experience of Renal Tumors in Young: Clinico-pathological Profile and Long-Term Survival Patterns

Renal tumors in young population are relatively rare. We reviewed our experience with renal masses in patients below 45 years of age. Our objective was to analyze clinico-pathological and survival characteristics of renal malignancy in young adults in contemporary era. The medical records of patients below 45 years of age who underwent surgery for renal mass at our tertiary care center between 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Pertinent clinical information was compiled, including age, gender, year and type of surgery, histopathology and survival data. A total of 194 patients who underwent nephrectomy for suspicious renal masses were included. Mean age was 35.5 (14-45) years and males were 125 (64.4%). A total of 29/198 (14.6%) specimens had benign disease. In addition, 155 (91.7%) out of 169 malignant tumors were renal cell carcinomas, clear cell variant being the most common type (51%). Compared to RCC, non-RCC tumors were more common in females (27.7 vs 78.6%, p < 0.0001), had an early age of diagnosis (27.2 vs 36.9 year, p < 0.00001) and poorer progression-free (58.3 vs 72.0%, p = 0.03) and overall survival (63.6 vs 84.2%, p = 0.02) at 6 years of follow-up. Renal masses in young adults are most commonly RCC but can also include other diverse types. RCC in young adults is usually organ confined and has good prognosis. As compared to RCC, non-RCC malignant tumors occur in young age, are more in females, and have worse prognosis.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13193-022-01643-2.

Impact of age on the therapy-related characteristics and outcomes of testicular germ cell tumors at a tertiary care center in India

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Background: Testicular germ cell tumors (t-GCTs) commonly present in age group 20-40 years (yrs). Older patients (pts) in many cancers have worse tolerance to therapy and outcomes. We examine herein the effect of older age in t-GCT pts. Methods: We conducted a chart-review-based retrospective analysis of pts of t-GCTs diagnosed and treated at our urogenital clinic from 2015-2021. Pts were divided into two groups: Age ≤40 years (Group A) and >40 years (Group B). Multivariable Cox regression models were constructed to analyze the prognostic value of older age while adjusting for measured confounders. Results: A total of 298 patients of t-GCT were identified; the median age was 30 yrs (interquartile range 24-37), 43.0% with intermediate or poor risk, 64.8% patients with non-seminomatous GCT (NSGCT), 250 pts in gp A and 48 in gp B. Baseline characteristics in both gps differed significantly with respect to the risk category, and seminoma histology, while there was no difference for performance status (ECOG ≥2), see table. Bleomycin, cisplatin, and etoposide (BEP) was the most common chemotherapy (226/262 pts), and use of BEP was not different in 2 gps (p=0.249). Grade III/IV adverse effect burden was greater in gp B vs gp A for febrile neutropenia, nausea/vomiting, and diarrhea, while infertility was more in gp A (Table). Outcomes in terms of markers normalization (163 vs 33, p=0.408) and radiological response (complete remission, 93 vs 20, p=0.205) did not differ. Median overall survival was not reached in both gps, and the hazard ratio for age >40 yrs was 1.91 (95% confidence interval 0.91-3.99, p =0.086), after adjusting for risk category, performance status, and response to therapy. Conclusions: Age does not deter the use of platinum-based therapy, which, although more toxic, has similar efficacy to younger pts of t-GCT. [Table: see text]

Imaging Recommendations for Diagnosis, Staging, and Management of Renal Tumors

Renal cell carcinomas accounts for 2% of all the cancers globally. Most of the renal tumors are detected incidentally. Ultrasound remains the main screening modality to evaluate the renal masses. A multi -phase contrast enhanced computer tomography is must for characterizing the renal lesions. Imaging plays an important role in staging, treatment planning and follow up of renal cancers. In this review , we discuss the imaging guidelines for the management of renal tumors.

The study of miRNA-200c expression and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-related transcription factors in the primary bladder urothelial carcinoma

Background

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in bladder carcinoma (BC) invasiveness and metastasis. Studies have shown that muscle-invasive BC (MIBC) and non-MIBC (NMIBC) are different at the molecular level owing to different EMT-related programming. Recent studies suggest that dysregulation of specific miRNAs is linked to EMT in BC. With this background, we aimed to study the immunoexpression of EMT-markers and its correlation with miRNA-200c expression in a series of MIBCs and NMIBCs.

Materials and Methods

Quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction for the quantification of miR-200c expression was performed on 50 cases of urinary BC obtained from transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), cystectomy specimens, and ten peritumoral bladder tissue. Immunohistochemistry for ZEB1, ZEB2, TWIST, E-cadherin, and β-catenin was performed on tumor and peritumoral bladder tissue.

Results

Thirty-five TURBT and 15 cystectomy specimens were assessed. Among MIBC, loss of expression of E-cadherin (72.3%), β-catenin (66.7%), and ZEB1, ZEB2, and TWIST2 immunoreactivity was noted in 53.3%, 86.7%, and 73.3% of cases, respectively. Among NMIBC, loss of expression of E-cadherin (22.5%), β-catenin (17.1%) and ZEB1, ZEB2, and TWIST immunoreactivity was noted in 11.5%, 51.4%, and 91.4% of cases, respectively. Upregulation of miRNA-200c was noted in cases with retained E-cadherin and negative TWIST expression. Downregulation of miRNA-200c expression was noted in all the cases showing loss of E-cadherin, β-catenin, and in cases immunoreactive for ZEB1, ZEB2, and TWIST in MIBC. Downregulation of miRNA-200c expression was also noted in cases of MIBC with retained β-catenin and those immunonegative for ZEB1 and ZEB2. A similar trend was noted in NMIBC. Median miRNA-200c expression was low in both high-grade and low-grade NMIBC compared to peritumoral bladder tissue and was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

This study for the first time explores the relation of miR200C with E-cadherin, b-catenin, and its direct transcriptional regulators, namely Zeb1, Zeb2, and Twist in the same cohort of BC. We observed that miRNA-200c is downregulated in both MIBC and NMIBC. We identified novel expression of TWIST in cases of BC showing downregulation of miR200Cs suggesting that it is one of the protein targets of altered miRNA-200c expression contributing to EMT and can serve as a promising diagnostic marker and therapeutic target. Loss of E-cadherin and ZEB1 immunoexpression in high-grade NMIBC suggests an aggressive clinical behavior. However, ZEB2 heterogeneous expression in BC limits its diagnostic and prognostic utility.

Metabolic and Genetic Evaluation in Children with Nephrolithiasis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate metabolic and genetic abnormalities in children with nephrolithiasis attending a referral center in North India.

METHODS

The patients aged 1-18 y old with nephrolithiasis underwent biochemical evaluation and whole-exome sequencing. The authors evaluated for monogenic variants in 56 genes and compared allele frequency of 39 reported polymorphisms between patients and 1739 controls from the GenomeAsia 100 K database.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients, aged 9.1 ± 3.7 y were included. Stones were bilateral in 42.6%, familial in 33.3%, and recurrent in 25.9%. The most common metabolic abnormalities were hypercalciuria (35.2%), hyperoxaluria (24.1%), or both (11.1%), while xanthinuria (n = 3), cystinuria (n = 1), and hyperuricosuria (n = 1) were rare. Exome sequencing identified an etiology in 6 (11.1%) patients with pathogenic/likely pathogenic causative variants. Three variants in MOCOS and one in ATP7B were pathogenic; likely pathogenic variants included MOCOS (n = 2), AGXT, and SLC7A9 (n = 1, each). Causality was not attributed to two SLC34A1 likely pathogenic variants, due to lack of matching phenotype and dominant family history. Compared to controls, allele frequency of the polymorphism TRPV5 rs4252402 was significantly higher in familial stone disease (allele frequency 0.47 versus 0.53; OR 3.2, p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The chief metabolic abnormalities were hypercalciuria and hyperoxaluria. A monogenic etiology was identified in 11% with pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants using a gene panel for nephrolithiasis. Heterozygous missense variants in the sodium-phosphate cotransporter SLC34A1 were common and required evaluation for attributing pathogenicity. Rare polymorphisms in TRPV5 might increase the risk of familial stones. These findings suggest that a combination of metabolic and genetic evaluation is useful for determining the etiology of nephrolithiasis.

Cutaneous Ureterostomy or Ileal Conduit Urinary Diversion: Can We Spare the Bowel Following Radical Cystectomy in Patients with Solitary Functioning Kidney?

To compare the outcomes between cutaneous ureterostomy and ileal conduit urinary diversion in patients with solitary functioning kidney, undergoing radical cystectomy. This study was a retrospective analysis of the patients, with solitary functioning kidney, who underwent radical cystectomy with either cutaneous ureterostomy or ileal conduit from January 2014 to May 2019. Baseline characteristics, perioperative outcomes, and follow-up renal function were evaluated and compared. For renal function outcomes, we assessed the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and included patients with a follow-up of at least 2 years. A total of 43 patients were included in the study, 23 of them underwent cutaneous ureterostomy and 20 underwent ileal conduit urinary diversion. The two groups were similar with respect to their baseline demographic and clinical characteristics. Operative time (p < 0.001), time to drain removal (p = 0.016), postoperative length of hospital stay (p = 0.018), and bowel-related complications (p = 0.047) were significantly lower in patients who underwent cutaneous ureterostomy. The eGFR was comparable at baseline, and till 1 year of follow-up. But, there was a greater decline in eGFR over 2 years, in patients who received cutaneous ureterostomy (p = 0.039). The present study shows that cutaneous ureterostomy has better perioperative, and comparable short-term renal function outcomes over ileal conduit urinary diversion. However, over 2 years of follow-up, there was an increased likelihood, and greater degree of decline in eGFR in patients who received cutaneous ureterostomy.

Non-Invasive characterisation of renal stones using dual energy CT: A method to differentiate calcium stones

BACKGROUND

Non-invasive DECT based characterization of renal stones using their effective atomic number (Z_eff) and the electron density (ρe) in patients.

AIM

This paper aims to develop a method for in-vivo characterization of renal stone. Differentiation of renal stones in-vivo especially sub types of calcium stones have very important advantage for better judgement of treatment modality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

50 extracted renal stones were scanned ex-vivo using dual energy CT scanner. A method was developed to characterize these renal stones using effective atomic number and electron density obtained from dual energy CT data. The method and formulation developed in ex-vivo experiments was applied in in-vivo study of 50 randomly selected patients of renal stones who underwent dual energy CT scan.

RESULTS

The developed method was able to characterize Calcium Oxalate Monohydrate (COM) and the combination of COM and Calcium Oxalate Dihydrate (COD) stones non-invasively in patients with a sensitivity of 81% and 83%respectively. The method was also capable of differentiating Uric, Cystine and mixed stones with the sensitivity of 100, 100 and 85.71% respectively.

CONCLUSION

The developed dual energy CT based method was capable of differentiating sub types of calcium stones which is not differentiable on single energy or dual energy CT images.

Role of routine nephrectomy for non-functioning kidneys due to genitourinary tuberculosis: Data from an Indian subcontinent

Objective:

To evaluate the role of routine nephrectomy for tuberculous non-functioning kidney (TNFK) after receiving anti-tubercular therapy (ATT) by demonstrating whether live tubercle bacilli persist in nephrectomy specimens after treatment or not.

Materials and methods:

Patients with TNFK who underwent nephrectomy after completion of at least 6 months of ATT were included in this prospective cohort study. We sent tissue/pus from a nephrectomy specimen for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) staining, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and culture to look for live bacilli. Bacilli were considered alive only if AFB culture was positive.

Results:

Twenty-four patients underwent nephrectomy for TNFK between April 2015 and October 2017 (18 laparoscopic and 6 open nephrectomy). Laparoscopic nephrectomy was associated with lower blood loss (225 ml versus 408 ml, p = 0.0003) and shorter hospital stay (3 versus 3.8 days, p = 0.06) compared with open nephrectomy; however, mean operative time and overall complications were similar. Eight specimens were AFB smear and/or tuberculosis PCR positive, out of which three showed viable bacilli upon culture. Drug sensitivity testing showed multi-drug resistant strain in all three patients who were treated with second-line ATT.

Conclusion:

It is preferable to do routine nephrectomy for TNFKs as they are more likely to harbour live bacilli and lead to disease recurrence. Viability testing for AFB must be performed on all operated specimens to identify drug resistant bacilli so that patients may be treated with second-line therapy if required.

Level of evidence:

4.

Survival analysis and predictors of long-term outcomes following radical nephrectomy with inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombectomy in renal cell carcinoma

Background

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) presents with inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombus in 10%-30% cases and surgical management forms the mainstay of the treatment. The objective of this study is to assess the outcomes of the patients undergoing radical nephrectomy with IVC thrombectomy.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing open radical nephrectomy with IVC thrombectomy between 2006 till 2018 was done.

Results

A total of 56 patients were included. The mean (±standard deviation) age was 57.1 (±12.2) years. The number of patients with levels I, II, III, and IV thrombus were 4, 29,10, and 13, respectively. The mean blood loss was 1851.8 mL, and the mean operative time was 303.3 minutes. Overall, the complication rate was 51.7%, while the perioperative mortality rate was 8.9%. The mean duration of hospital stay was 10.6 ± 6.4 days. The majority of the patients had clear cell carcinoma (87.5%). There was a significant association between grade and stage of thrombus (P = 0.011). Using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the median overall survival (OS) was 75 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 43.5-106.5) months, and the median recurrence-free survival (RFS) was 48 (95% CI = 33.1-62.3) months. Age (P = 0.03), presence of systemic symptoms (P = 0.01), radiological size (P = 0.04), histopathological grade (P = 0.01), level of thrombus (P = 0.04), and invasion of thrombus into IVC wall (P = 0.01) were found to be significant predictors of OS.

Conclusion

The management of RCC with IVC thrombus poses a major surgical challenge. Experience of a center along with high-volume and multidisciplinary facility particularly cardiothoracic facility provides better perioperative outcome. Though surgically challenging, it offers good overall-survival and recurrence-free survival.

Prognostic significance of raised serum tumor markers (STM) after 2 cycles of chemotherapy in men with intermediate- and poor-risk non-seminomatous testicular germ cell tumors (NSGCT) treated at a single-centre in India

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Background: Testicular GCT is a rare malignancy, with excellent outcomes. However, approximately one-fourth of intermediate risk and half of the patients with poor risk disease succumb to recurrent GCT. We looked at the prognostic significance of raised serum tumor markers after 2 cycles of chemotherapy in patients with poor risk GCT. Methods: This is a chart-review based retrospective analysis of patients with intermediate and poor risk NSGCT diagnosed and treated at a tertiary care centre in New Delhi, India from 2015-2021. Risk categories were defined as per the International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group. Multivariable Cox regression models were constructed to analyse the prognostic impact of normal STM at the end of second cycle of chemotherapy on overall survival (OS) and relapse free survival (RFS), while adjusted for measured confounders. Results: A total of 312 patients were identified with testicular NSGCT, of whom 109 were intermediate (n = 48, 44%) and poor risk (n = 61, 56%). The median age at diagnosis was 27 (interquartile range, 21-34) years. ECOG PS of patients was 0-1 in 51% and 2-4 in 49%, and poor risk patients were more likely to have a poor ECOG PS at diagnosis (70% vs 30%, P < 0.001). First-line chemotherapy was BEP in 86% patients and VIP in the remaining 14%, and surgery for residual disease was performed in 22%. Overall, 35% patients had normal STM after 2 cycles of chemotherapy, and patients with intermediate risk were likely to achieve normal STM at this time-point (50% vs 23%). At a median follow-up of 62 months, the 5-year RFS rate was 62% (poor risk 52% and intermediate risk 78%), and OS rate was 68% (58% and 80%, respectively). Men with normal STM after 2 cycles chemotherapy had a better RFS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.70; 95% confidence interval 0.48-0.81; P < 0.001) and OS (HR,0.82; 95% CI 0.61-0.99; P = 0.04). After adjusting for risk category, and ECOG PS in a multivariable Cox regression model, patients with normal STM at the end of 2 cycles of chemo continued to have better outcomes (adjusted HR for RFS, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.77-0.89; P = 0.03, and adjusted HR for OS, 0.92; 95% CI,0.81-0.99; P = 0.05). Intermediate risk NSGCT and good ECOG PS also predicted better RFS and OS. Conclusions: Patients with NSGCT whose STMs do not normalize after 2 cycles of chemotherapy have worse RFS and OS compared to those with normal STM at this time-point. Further clinical trials will be needed to study the role of escalation or switch of chemotherapy in this subset of population.

Autophagy-associated HMGB-1 as a novel potential circulating non-invasive diagnostic marker for detection of Urothelial Carcinoma of Bladder

Urothelial carcinoma of bladder (UBC), a highly prevalent urological malignancy associated with high mortality and recurrence rate. Standard diagnostic method currently being used is cystoscopy but its invasive nature and low sensitivity stresses for identifying predictive diagnostic marker. Autophagy, a cellular homeostasis maintaining process, is usually dysregulated in cancer and its role is still enigmatic in UBC. In this study, 30 UBC patients and healthy controls were enrolled. Histopathologically confirmed tumor and adjacent normal tissue were acquired from patients. Molecular expression and tissue localization of autophagy-associated molecules (HMGB-1, RAGE, beclin, LC-3, and p62) were investigated. Serum HMGB-1 concentration was measured in UBC patients and healthy controls. ROC curves were plotted to evaluate diagnostic potential. Transcript, protein, and IHC expression of HMGB-1, RAGE, beclin, and LC-3 displayed upregulated expression, while p62 was downregulated in bladder tumor tissue. Serum HMGB-1 levels were elevated in UBC patients. Transcript and circulatory levels of HMGB-1 showed positive correlation and displayed a positive trend with disease severity. Upon comparison with clinicopathological parameters, HMGB-1 emerged as molecule of statistical significance to exhibit association. HMGB-1 exhibited optimum sensitivity and specificity in serum. The positive correlation between tissue and serum levels of HMGB-1 showcases serum as a representation of in situ scenario, suggesting its clinical applicability for non-invasive testing. Moreover, optimum sensitivity and specificity displayed by HMGB-1 along with significant association with clinicopathological parameters makes it a potential candidate to be used as diagnostic marker for early detection of UBC but requires further validation in larger cohort.

Impact of previous transurethral resection of prostate on robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: a matched cohort analysis

We aimed to compare surgical, oncological, and functional outcomes of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in prostate cancer patients with and without prior history of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), using a matched cohort analysis. In an IRB-approved protocol, all patients who underwent RARP at our institution between April 2005 and July 2018 with at least 1-year follow-up were included. Among these, patients who had undergone a previous TURP (Group A) were compared with those without TURP (Group B) using the Survival, Continence, and Potency outcomes reporting system. Using propensity score matching for age, PSA and Gleason score, the two cohorts were further subdivided in a 1:2 ratio into Group C (prior TURP from Group A) and Group D (without prior TURP from Group B). Similar comparisons were made between Group C and D. Patients in Group A (n = 40) had lower PSA (p = 0.031) and were more likely to have Gleason grade 1 disease (p = 0.035) than patients in Group B (n = 143). In the propensity-matched group analysis, patients of Group C (n = 38) had higher operative time and blood loss than Group D (n = 76) patients. Group C patients also had lower continence at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. However, oncological and potency outcomes were similar in both the groups. We concluded that previous TURP is a predictor for surgical and continence outcomes following RARP. Even though these patients have a potentially lower stage or grade of disease, they are less likely to achieve social continence than men who have not had a previous TURP. This information would be important in counseling them for treatment options.

Raised prostate-specific antigen alone may not be a true predictor in high-risk prostate cancer: A retrospective cohort analysis

INTRODUCTION

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) >20 ng/mL in isolation is a criterion for classification as "high-risk" prostate cancer (PCa). However, among Indian men, PSA elevation is often seen even in the absence of PCa and patients with PSA as the sole criterion for the high-risk disease may have different outcomes from those categorized as high risk due to adverse pathological features. We compared the operative, oncological, and functional outcomes after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in men with high-risk PCa categorized using PSA alone versus clinical and histopathological findings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In an Institute Review Board-approved study, men undergoing RARP with high-risk PCa with at least 2-year follow-up were categorized into those with PSA >20 ng/ml being the sole criteria for being high risk (Group A) versus those with Gleason score ≥8 or ≥T2c disease but any PSA level (Group B). The two groups were compared for perioperative, oncological, and functional outcomes.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients with high-risk disease were included. Twenty-six patients (48.9%) were classified into Group A while 27 patients (50.9%) were classified into Group B. The median PSA was significantly higher in Group A (31 [26-35] ng/ml in Group A vs. 21 [12-34] ng/ml in Group B, P = 0.006) and on histopathology of radical prostatectomy specimen, 24 (92.3%) patients had GG ≤3 disease in Group A versus 10 (37%) patients in Group B (P < 0.001). Patients in both the groups had similar perioperative and continence outcomes. However, Group A had significantly lower biochemical recurrence rate (3/26 [11.5%]) as compared to Group B (11/27 [40.7%]) (P = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

PSA >20 ng/ml is the single most common criterion for stratification as high-risk PCa. However, men with PSA >20 ng/ml in isolation, without another adverse criterion, have better outcomes than men with adverse clinical or pathological criteria for high-risk disease.

Association of human papillomavirus in penile cancer: A single-center analysis

Introduction

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a known risk factor of penile cancer (PeCa). However, studies evaluating its true association are limited. In this study, we aimed to estimate HPV prevalence and its true association with PeCa in terms of molecular biological activities.

Materials and Methods

This single-institutional prospective observational study was conducted between June 2016 and August 2019. We included 40 men with PeCa as a study group and 20 age-matched uncircumcised men who underwent circumcision for phimosis as a control group. Both the groups underwent deoxyribonucleic acid isolation for HPV subtyping followed by evaluation of relative E6/E7 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression profile and relative telomerase activity in tissue samples. HPV-16 and -18 were categorized as high-risk, whereas HPV-6 and -11 were categorized as low-risk subtypes.

Results

The mean (±standard deviation) age of PeCa was 51 ± 15.9 years. The majority of patients had stage II disease, and the most common procedure done was partial penectomy. The overall prevalence of HPV in PeCa was 42.5% (n = 17) as compared to 20% (n = 4) in controls. Among the subtypes, the most common subtype was HPV-16 noted in 33.3% (8/24) of cases, followed by HPV-18 in 29.2% (7/24) of cases. PeCa tissues had a significantly higher relative E7 mRNA expression for HPV-18 than the control group (P = 0.016). The mean relative telomerase activity was significantly higher in the PeCa tissues than the control group (138.66 vs. 14.46, P < 0.001). A significantly higher relative telomerase activity was noted in the PeCa tissues positive for high-risk HPV subtypes than controls (141.90 vs. 14.46, P = 0.0008), but not between high-risk HPV-positive and HPV-negative PeCa cases (141.90 vs. 137.03, P = 0.79). High-risk subtypes were not associated with tumor stage (P = 0.76) or lymph node metastasis (P = 0.816).

Conclusions

HPV was associated in 42.5% of PeCa cases based on our experience from a single institution. PeCa tissues had a higher relative E7 mRNA expression for HPV-18 and relative telomerase activity as compared to controls suggesting their potential role as surrogate markers of virus-induced tumorigenesis.

Analysis of causes of failure of medical treatment in patients undergoing surgery for benign prostate enlargement

BACKGROUND

To analyse causes of failure of medical management in benign prostate enlargement (BPE) in patients who undergo surgery following medical treatment and to elucidate parameters which warrant for early surgical treatment.

METHODS

Records of 747 patients who underwent surgery for BPE were reviewed for prostate volume, median lobe enlargement, post void residual urine, duration and type of medical treatment given for BPE. We used univariate and multivariate analysis to find out significant parameters for medical treatment failure.

RESULTS

A total of 601 patients (80.45%) received medical treatment for their lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), for a duration ranging between 3 months and 2 years. Statistically significant difference was found between age, prostate volume, intravesical projection, PSA and acute urinary retention with failure of medical treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

BPE patients with failure to respond with medical management within 3-6 months and/or associated with large size prostate, intravesical projection and raised serum PSA should better be offered surgical treatment.

Association of heavy metals and trace elements in renal cell carcinoma: A case-controlled study

PURPOSE

Trace elements and/or heavy metals are important for various biological activities. However, excess amount of these elements is associated with a variety of diseases, including cancer. We aimed to analyse the alterations of trace elements levels in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this observational study, patients with biopsy proven RCC were taken as study group while age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers were taken as control. Blood and urine samples were compared for Arsenic (As), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Selenium (Se), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb) and Mercury (Hg) levels measured by inductively coupled plasma mass-spectroscopy. Serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels were assessed to know the redox status between 2 groups.

RESULTS

A total of 76 RCC cases and 64 controls were recruited in the study. A significantly higher concentration of As, Cu, Mn, Cd, Pb and Hg were observed in the blood of RCC patients as compared to controls. However, blood Se level was significantly lower in RCC patients. In 33 (43.4%) patients, one or more heavy metals were higher in the blood above their permitted level as compared to 10 (15.6%) subjects in control group. RCC patients had a higher urinary Mn and Se levels compared to controls. A significantly lower GSH-Px (182.08 ± 132.91 vs. 236.95 ± 132.94, P = 0.04) and a higher LPO levels (26.02 ± 20.79 vs. 14.06 ± 8.44, P = 0.003) were noted in RCC patients than controls. SOD levels were comparable between two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

A significantly altered heavy metals concentration is noted in the blood and urine in RCC patients as compared to healthy controls. An associated lower levels of GSH-Px antioxidant enzyme and increased LPO in RCC patients signifies an imbalance in the redox status.

Multimodality imaging evaluation of pseudotumors in chronic renal dysfunction: exposing the masquerade!

Focal renal lesions in the background of chronic kidney disease (CKD) present a diagnostic challenge. Contrast administration is usually avoided in such a setting, undermining the usefulness of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Focal regenerating nodules may occur in the background of CKD and closely mimic renal neoplasms. The aim of the present article was to highlight the salient manifestations of such CKD pseudotumors on different imaging modalities and also to depict the differentiating features from malignancy. Radiologists must be aware of the imaging appearance of this uncommonly talked about entity so as to avoid inadvertent surgery or cause undue anxiety to the patient.

Ureter-first Approach and Reduction of Pelvis: Standardizing Handling of Ureteropelvic Junction During Pyeloplasty

OBJECTIVE

To present our "ureter-first" approach as a standardized step-wise incision-making technique to deal with all types of uretero-pelvic junction (UPJ) anatomy during pyeloplasty. Pyeloplasty is a common surgery performed for UPJ obstruction, with Anderson-Hynes' pyeloplasty being the commonest. However, there is great variability in handling UPJ and incision-making among the surgeons with no detailed standardized description that can be followed in all cases, notwithstanding broad descriptions of incision lines. We underscore this aspect of pyeloplasty and present our universal technique with a goal to minimize surgical errors.

METHODS

A standardized step-by-step handling of UPJ and sequential incision-making was developed for pyeloplasty. It avoids unwarranted loss of any pelvis tissue before confirming individual UPJ anatomy, emphasizes preservation of lower lip of pelvis and minimizes tension on anastomosis. This standardized technique was uniformly used in all cases over 5 years. The peri-operative and functional outcome results are presented.

RESULTS

Fifty-one consecutive cases were done using ureter-first approach. UPJ was >1 cm in eight cases. Three of these had UPJ >2 cm. Eight other cases had a low-insertion below level of kidney while three had high insertion of ureter. There were no cases which were deemed to be done under tension or unsatisfactory repair by the surgeon. There were no failures requiring any kind of redo repair at mean follow up of 39 months.

CONCLUSION

A uniform standardized approach saves the surgeon from unwarranted or wrongly designed incisions on the pelvis and thus has the potential to reduce surgical mistakes.

Molecular Profiling in Thyroid cancer- Using next generation sequencing to differentiate rare cases of papillary thyroid hyperplasia from papillary thyroid carcinoma

Introduction/Objective

Differentiating papillary thyroid hyperplasia from papillary thyroid carcinoma is made primarily on differences in key histologic and cytomorphologic features. These include architectural features such as invasion and nuclear changes such as chromatin pallor, nuclear grooves, and intranuclear pseudoinclusions. Distinguishing between these two diagnoses is not always straightforward in a minority of cases, as papillary thyroid hyperplasia nodules can be misinterpreted as papillary thyroid carcinoma and vice versa. This is because the nuclear changes can be subtle and be induced artificially by poor or inadequate formalin fixation. Immunostains such as cytokeratin 19 (CK19), galectin-3, and HBME1 may be used to distinguish between papillary thyroid hyperplastic nodules and papillary thyroid carcinoma; however, as immunostaining results are not always definitive, other more definitive ancillary tests are sometimes utilized such as molecular testing.

Methods/Case Report

Thyroid cases with indeterminate diagnoses (n=6) were obtained from the archives. Such cases included papillary thyroid hyperplasia and cases with descriptive diagnoses such as well-differentiated encapsulated and low-grade papillary carcinoma. Five cases of definitive papillary thyroid carcinoma and one case of follicular thyroid carcinoma (n=6) were used as a comparison group. Next generation sequencing (NGS) assays were performed using a custom SLIMamp targeted DNA solid tumor panel (Pillar Biosciences) and a targeted multi gene RNA fusion panel (Invitae).

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

All of the definitive cases of papillary thyroid carcinoma showed characteristic mutations such as BRAF V600E as well as RNA fusions such as RET/PTC while all of the indeterminate cases did not show any detectable DNA mutations or RNA fusions, confirming their benign nature. A separate case that was signed out as non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features showed an NRAS Q61R mutation and a novel ETV1-ERG fusion.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the utility of molecular testing as an adjunct to histopathological evaluation in definitive diagnosis and differentiation of papillary thyroid hyperplasia from papillary carcinoma. Next generation sequencing with targeted DNA and RNA panels will be beneficial for both known and novel variant or fusion detection in suspect cases.

Clinical Value of Patient-Specific Three-Dimensional Printing of Kidney Before Partial Nephrectomy: A Qualitative Assessment

Objectives: To qualitatively assess the clinical usefulness of patient-specific high-fidelity three-dimensional (3D) print model of kidney before partial nephrectomy (PN) and to identify subset domains where it may help in clinical terms. Materials and Methods: Thirteen 3D models were printed for tumors having RENAL nephrometry score of ≥8. Their usage for PN was assessed prospectively using a qualitative questionnaire to be answered on a Likert scale of 1-10. The questions focused on realistic resemblance, preoperative dry surgical run, intertest comparison, surgical impact, and overall beneficence domains as perceived by primary surgeons with respect to surgical conduct during PN. Results: Mean RENAL score was 9.15 (8-11). Models were rated high (9.07 ± 0.86) for realistic resemblance domain and were rated better than contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) (8.38 ± 0.87) and intraoperative ultrasonography (8.07 ± 1.26) for orientation regarding resection margins. A further marginal improvement to 8.2 ± 0.84 was noted against ultrasound where surgeon did a dry cut preoperatively. Use of superselective arterial approach in four, precise awareness about dissection of a major vessel in four, retroperitoneoscopic approach in one, and surgical margin awareness in three were directly attributed to the model. Overall utility of having a model printed was rated high (8.23 ± 1.3). Conclusion: The 3D print models of complex renal tumors have high realistic resemblance to actual patient's anatomy. They were rated better than preoperative CECT or intraoperative ultrasonography for orientation regarding surgical resection margins. It may also help change or modify the surgical plan in a subset of patients with a potential to improve overall outcomes in these complex cases.

Understanding an unusual urothelial disorder: cystitis cystica et glandularis

Objectives:

To study the presentation and natural course of cystitis cystica et glandularis.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of patients with histopathologically confirmed cystitis cystica et glandularis from March 2016 to March 2018 who at least completed their 2 years’ follow-up was performed. Perioperative details along with the last available follow-up were included in the analysis.

Results:

A total of 10 patients were included. The mean age (± standard deviation) was 33.4 (±14.0) years and nine (90%) were men. The most common presentation was storage and voiding lower urinary tract symptoms (80%) along with haematuria (40%) and dysuria (20%). Four patients had the presence of hydronephrosis in preoperative imaging, of which three patients had bilateral mild hydroureteronephrosis. All the patients underwent transurethral resection of the bladder tumour as all were diagnosed with urinary bladder mass on preoperative imaging. All the patients had a trigonal lesion with a bullous appearance partially obstructing the bladder neck. Six patients underwent double J stenting in the perioperative period. The mean (± standard deviation) follow-up duration was 32.8 (±7.5) months. Patients were kept on regular surveillance with imaging and cystoscopy as indicated. Eight patients (80%) developed recurrence in the follow-up period. The mean number of recurrences was 1.5 (±1.1). One of the patients had to undergo augmentation ileocystoplasty with bilateral ureteric reimplantation because of the recurrent lesion with small contracted bladder, while another patient underwent cystectomy with urinary diversion owing to recurrence and refractory lower urinary tract symptoms. Besides, there was no evidence of malignancy after this entity in any of the patients.

Conclusion:

Cystitis cystica et glandularis is a rare clinic pathological entity which often mimics bladder tumour. Cystitis cystica et glandularis is common in men and often presents with lower urinary tract symptoms. Transurethral resection forms the mainstay of treatment. However, it is often associated with upper tract hydronephrosis. Its controversial premalignant nature compounded with recurrence and risk of upper tract deterioration warrants close surveillance.

Level of evidence:

4

Renal Cell Cancer: Clinicopathological Profile and Survival Outcomes

Background: The incidence of renal cell cancer (RCC) is increasing worldwide. However, scant information is available from the Indian subcontinent regarding its clinicopathological characteristics and survival outcomes. We retrospectively analyzed data of patients suffering from RCC at our center over the last one decade (2004–2013) to generate information on these aspects. Materials and Methods: Case records of 423 patients treated between 2004 and 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. Baseline characteristics, histopathological information, and survival outcomes were assessed. Overall survival was calculated from the time of diagnosis to death due to any cause. Results: The median age was 52 years (range: 18–87 years). Male: female ratio was 3.5:1. The median duration of symptoms was 3 months (range: 0–24 months). Thirty-five patients (8.3%) were detected in asymptomatic state. The most common symptom was hematuria (53.2%) followed by flank pain (46.3%). The most common histology was clear cell subtype (71.4%). Two hundred and ninety-three (69.3%) patients presented with nonmetastatic disease whereas 130 (30.7%) had upfront metastatic disease. Five-year survival in Stages 1, 2, 3, and 4 was 92.7%, 72.9%, 54.6%, and 11.5%, respectively. Conclusion: Younger age, higher male–female ratio, lower proportion of asymptomatic patients, higher proportion of advanced stage at diagnosis, and lower stage-wise survival were some of the key findings.

Effects of horizontal versus vertical bolster alignment on anatomical orientation of kidney as applied to prone percutaneous nephrolithotomy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the anatomical changes in kidney orientation in prone position with use of horizontal or vertical bolster alignment.

METHODS

Patients having renal stone(s) on ultrasonogram or X-ray underwent split bolus computed-tomo-urography (CTU) in prone position with horizontal and vertical bolster positions. CTUs were read by a single radiologist to quantify the cranio-caudal, antero-posterior, side to side and rotational movements of kidneys as relevant to prone percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

RESULTS

19 adult patients with 38 renal units and mean basal metabolic index of 25.6 kg/m² underwent CTU. Greater inferior displacement of both kidneys was seen with horizontal bolsters as compared to vertical bolsters. The right upper calyceal-diaphragm distance was 2.1 ± 1.5 cm and the lower calyceal-diaphragm distance was 2.0 ± 1.6 cm greater with the horizontal bolsters (p < 0.01). Similarly, the displacement on the left side was 1.5 ± 0.8 cm and 1.4 ± 0.8 cm, respectively (p < 0.01). Horizontal bolsters also result in significantly longer calyceal-skin distance at both poles of both kidneys [right upper: 0.4 ± 0.5 cm (p < 0.01), right lower: 0.8 ± 0.7 cm (p < 0.01), left upper: 0.4 ± 0.6 cm (p = 0.02), left lower: 0.8 ± 1.1 cm (p < 0.01)] and wider erector spinae-mid posterior calyceal-colon angle (124.8 v/s 110.0 on the right and 96.2 v/s 85.7 on the left) (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Horizontal bolsters provide significantly more caudal displacement of the kidneys; the right kidney being displaced more as compared to the left. However, there is also an increase in the skin-calyceal distance with horizontal as compared to the vertical bolsters. These assessments may help the surgeons decide optimal bolster position individualized to the patient.

Long-term outcome of 177Lu-PSMA-617 radioligand therapy in heavily pre-treated metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer patients

Objective

Investigators have extensively explored the short-term safety and efficacy data on ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA-617 radioligand therapy (RLT) in mCRPC patients. However, scarce literature is reported on the long-term outcome of these patients. The current goal of this study is focused on the long-term outcome of mCRPC patients treated with ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA-617 RLT.

Methods

Among 135 patients, 121 mCRPC patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. Patients received a median of 3 cycles of ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA-617 RLT at 6 to 12-week intervals. Primary endpoint included overall survival (OS) and secondary endpoints involved progression-free survival (PFS), predictive factors of OS and PFS, PSA response rate, molecular response, clinical response, and toxicity assessment.

Results

The median administered cumulative activity was 20 GBq (3.7–37 GBq). The median follow-up duration was 36 months (6–72 months). The estimated median PFS and OS were 12 months (mo) (95% CI: 10.3–13 mo) and 16 mo (95% CI: 13–17 mo), respectively. Any PSA decline and PSA decline >50% was achieved in 73% and 61% of the patients, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed only failure to achieve >50% PSA decline as a significant factor associated with a poor PFS. Prognostic factors associated with reduced OS included, failure to experience >50% PSA decline, heavily pre-treated patient cohort who received >2 lines of prior treatment options, and patient sub-group treated with ≥2 lines of chemotherapy. Patients re-treated with additional treatment options after attaining ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA refractory disease showed a remarkably prolonged OS. A significant clinical benefit was achieved post ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA-617 RLT. The most common toxicities observed were fatigue (34.7%), followed by nausea (33%), and dry mouth (24.7%).

Conclusion

The current study supports the short-term safety and efficacy results of high response rates, prolonged PFS and OS, improved quality of life, and low treatment-related toxicities in patients treated with ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA-617 radioligand therapy.

Prognostic and predictive role of intra-tumoral CXCR1 expression in patients receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitors for metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma

Objective:

We aimed to evaluate the role of intra-tumoral CXCR1 expression in predicting prognosis and treatment response in metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma patients receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Materials and methods:

Patients with metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma presented between February 2018–December 2019 were studied for the CXCR1 expression in tumor tissues before starting tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Primary outcome measure was progression-free survival. Secondary outcome measures included overall survival and prediction of treatment response.

Results:

The study included 35 patients with a mean age of 53.6±9.6 years. At a mean follow-up of 12.2±4.1 months, 17 (48.6%) patients had disease progression including eight (22.9%) deaths. Patients with high CXCR1 expression, compared to those with low CXCR1 expression, had a significantly shorter 12-month progression-free survival (35.4% vs 77.9%, p=0.01) and an insignificant impact on 12-month overall survival. The CXCR1 expression scores significantly differed between patients with progressive and nonprogressive disease (20.1 vs 15.1, p=0.01) and patients with high CXCR1 expression had a reduced benefit from tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The multivariate Cox regression analysis showed CXCR1 expression as a significant predictor of progression-free survival.

Conclusion:

High intra-tumoral CXCR1 expression before tyrosine kinase inhibitors can be an independent prognostic factor for progression-free survival and predictor of reduced benefit in patients with metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma.

Level of evidence:

Level 2b.

Utility of first order MRI-Texture analysis parameters in the prediction of histologic grade and muscle invasion in urinary bladder cancer: a preliminary study

OBJECTIVE

To explore the utility of first-order MRI-texture analysis (TA) parameters in predicting histologic grade and muscle invasion in urinary bladder cancer (UBC).

METHODS

After ethical clearance, 40 patients with UBC, who were imaged on a 3.0-Tesla scanner, were retrospectively included. Using the TexRAD^TM platform, two readers placed freehand ROI on the sections demonstrating the largest dimension of the tumor, evaluating only one tumor per patient. Interobserver reproducibility was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Mann-Whitney U test and ROC curve analysis were used to identify statistical significance and select parameters with high class separation capacity (AUC >0.8), respectively. Pearson's test was used to identify redundancy in the results.

RESULTS

All texture parameters showed excellent ICC. The best parameters in differentiating high and low-grade tumors were mean/ mean of positive pixels (MPP) at SSF 0 (AUC: 0.897) and kurtosis at SSF 5 (AUC: 0.828) on the ADC images. In differentiating muscle invasive from non-muscle invasive tumors, mean/ MPP at SSF 0 on the ADC images showed AUC >0.8; however, this finding resulted from the confounding effect of high-grade histology on the ADC values of muscle invasive tumors.

CONCLUSION

MRI-TA generated few parameters which were reproducible and useful in predicting histologic grade. No independent parameters predicted muscle invasion.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

There is lacuna in the literature concerning the role of MRI-TA in the prediction of histologic grade and muscle invasion in UBC. Our study generated a few first-order parameters which were useful in predicting high-grade histology.

Contemporary Outcomes of Open Radical Cystectomy: a 5-Year Experience from a Tertiary Care Center

To evaluate the perioperative outcomes of patients undergoing open radical cystectomy for carcinoma bladder in a tertiary care center. A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of all patients undergoing open radical cystectomy with a urinary diversion from July 2014 to August 2019 was done. A total of 195 patients were included. A total of 172 patients (88.2%) underwent radical cystectomy with ileal or sigmoid conduit, 6 patients underwent orthotopic neobladder, and 17 patients underwent cutaneous ureterostomy. The mean American Society of Anaesthesiology (ASA) score was 1.4. On preoperative histopathology, 125 patients had the muscle-invasive disease. The mean operative time (± SD) was 303.6 ± 53.4 min and the operative time was significantly longer for neobladder (p = 0.033). The mean blood loss (± SD) was 977.5 ± 346.5 ml. Among the complications, a total of 350 events occurred in 96 patients (49.3%). Thirty-nine patients (20%) suffered grade I complications, 12 patients (6.2%) suffered grade II complications, 26 patients (13.3%) suffered grade III complications, and 9 patients (4.6%) suffered grade IV complications. Grade III, IV, and V complications were considered major complications and 46 patients (23.5%) had major complications. Among the grade III complications, the majority included fascial dehiscence (burst abdomen), i.e., 13.3%, and uretero-ileal leak, i.e., 2.6%. The overall 30-day mortality rate was 5.2% (10/195). On multivariate analysis, the presence of diabetes mellitus (p = 0.047), operative time (p = 0.003), and low preoperative albumin (p = 0.009) were significant predictors for major preoperative complications. Diabetes mellitus, serum albumin, and operative time are significant predictors of postoperative complications. The ASA score, low preoperative hemoglobin, and blood loss are significant predictors of perioperative mortality. Though radical cystectomy has been associated with significant perioperative morbidity and mortality, the advancements in surgical techniques and intensive care tools have led to a significant decrease in morbidity and mortality in the contemporary era.

Impact of vesicovaginal fistula repair on urinary and sexual function: patient-reported outcomes over long-term follow-up

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

While the anatomical closure rates of vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) following transabdominal (TA) and transvaginal (TV) repairs seem comparable, studies comparing urinary and sexual outcomes following successful repair are lacking. We aimed to report patient-reported outcomes on sexual and urinary functions after long-term follow-up with successful repair.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 81 women who had successful VVF repair at our institute. Pre-, intra- and post-operative details were retrieved from electronic data software. Patient-reported sexual and urinary function outcomes were assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire and International Consultation of Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF), respectively, at last follow-up. We also compared such outcomes among TA and TV repairs.

RESULTS

Of 81 women, 28 (34.6%) had TA and 53 (65.4%) had TV repairs. Mean age was 37.5 years and mean fistula diameter was 12.9 mm. The most common aetiology was hysterectomy. Thirty-three patients (40.7%) had previous failed repairs. At a mean follow-up of 29.8 months, 24 (34.3%) women had sexual dysfunction and 15 (18.5%) women experienced urinary dysfunction. The TA and TV groups had comparable mean FSFI scores (28.7 ± 6.1 vs. 30.9 ± 5.2, p = 0.13) and ICIQ-SF scores (0.7 ± 1.7 vs. 0.5 ± 1.4, p = 0.59). In multivariate analysis, fistula size and site were significant predictors of urinary dysfunction whereas multiparity was the most significant predictor of sexual dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Sexual and urinary dysfunction is found in a considerable number of women after VVF repair. However, our data suggest comparable long-term sexual and continence outcomes between TA and TV repairs.

Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging, 68Ga prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography–Computed tomography, and respective quantitative parameters in detection and localization of clinically significant prostate cancer in intermediate- and high-risk group patients: An Indian demographic study

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and ⁶⁸Ga prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PSMA PET-CT) and respective quantitative parameters (K^trans – influx rate contrast, K_ep – efflux rate constant, ADC – apparent diffusion coefficient, and SUVmax ratio – prostate SUVmax to background SUVmax ratio) in detection and localization of clinically significant prostate cancer (CSPCa) in D’Amico intermediate- and high-risk group patients (prostate-specific antigen [PSA] >10 ng/ml).

Methodology:

The study included thirty-three consecutive adult men with serum prostate specific antigen >10ng/ml, and systematic 12 core prostate biopsy proven prostate cancer. All the 33 patients, were evaluated with mpMRI, and ⁶⁸Ga PSMA PET-CT. The biopsy specimens and imaging were evaluated for 12 sectors per prostate by a predetermined scheme.

Results:

MpMRI Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI-RADS v2) score ≥3 showed higher sensitivity than ⁶⁸Ga PSMA PET-CT (96.3% vs. 82.4%), with similar specificity (54.5% vs. 54.5%) (n = 33 patients, 396 sectors). Combined use of MRI and ⁶⁸Ga PSMA PET-CT in parallel increased sensitivity (99.5%) and NPV (98.7%) for detection of CSPCa and combined use of MRI and ⁶⁸Ga PSMA PET-CT in series increased specificity (71.8%) and PPV (71.5%) (n = 33 patients, 396 sectors). ADC showed a strong negative correlation with Gleason score (r = −0.77), and the highest discriminative ability for detection and localization of CSPCa (area under curve [AUC]: 0.91), followed by K^trans (r = 0.74; AUC: 0.89), PI-RADS (0.73; 0.86), SUVmax ratio (0.49; 0.74), and K_ep (0.24; 0.66).

Conclusion:

MpMRI PI-RADS v2 score and ⁶⁸Ga PSMA PET-CT (individually as well as in combination) are reliable tool for detection and localization of CSPCa. Quantitative MRI and ⁶⁸Ga PSMA PET-CT parameters have potential to predict Gleason score and detect CSPCa.

Refractory lymphatic ascites following laparoscopic management of renal lymphangiectasia: An unusual presentation

Renal lymphangiectasia characterised by either unilocular or multilocular cystic lesion in and around the kidney is an uncommon condition. Presentation of these lesions is quite varied, which along with its uncommon occurrence adds to the challenges in the management of this condition. Most of these cases are managed conservatively and very rarely need any intervention. We present an unusual complication of refractory lymphatic ascites following laparoscopic deroofing of a unilocular renal lymphangiectasia in a 21-year-old gentleman who presented with left flank pain. The ascitic fluid analysis suggested non-chylous lymphatic ascites. The surgical outcome was rather exasperating for the patient than the disease itself. Hence, in the interest of the patient with minimal symptoms, if the imaging is highly suggestive of renal lymphangiectasia, either no intervention or the least invasive procedures should be attempted, whenever possible.

Role of miRNA-182 and miRNA-187 as potential biomarkers in prostate cancer and its correlation with the staging of prostate cancer

Purpose

The microRNAs expression has emerged as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of prostate cancer. This study investigated the expression of miRNA-182 and miRNA-187 in prostate cancer patients and established a correlation between miRNA expression and staging of prostate cancer.

Materials and Methods

This prospective observational study involved patients undergoing transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy for suspicion of prostate cancer. Pre-biopsy urine samples and prostatic core tissue samples of the patients were preserved and the miRNA-182 and miRNA-187 were studied.

Results

Sixty-three patients were included in this study, thirty-three patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer and thirty patients having benign histopathology were considered as controls. The expression of miRNA-182 was significantly increased (p=0.002) and miRNA-187 significantly decreased (p <0.001) in prostate cancer tissue specimens. However, the expression of these miRNAs did not significantly differ in the urine of prostate cancer patients as compared to controls. Serum Prostatic Specific Antigen (PSA) inversely correlated with the median expression of miR-187 in prostatic tissue (p=0.002). Further, the expression of miRNA-187 in prostate cancer tissue was significantly decreased in metastatic prostate cancer (p=0.037). Using ROC analysis, miRNA-187 expression was able to distinguish the presence or absence of bone metastasis [area under ROC (AUROC) (±SD) was 0.873±0.061, p <0.001].

Conclusion

The miRNA-182 and miRNA-187 appear to be promising biomarkers in prostate cancer and miRNA-187 can serve as an important diagnostic marker of metastatic prostate cancer.

Role of circulating tumor cells in patients with metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

Circulating tumor cells (CTC) have been demonstrated to have prognostic and predictive role in certain human cancers. However, studies exploring their role in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) are scarce. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic and predictive role of CTC in mRCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this prospective study, 35 patients with mRCC were analyzed for the presence of CTC before starting tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). Progression-free and overall survival rates were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank test. The prediction to TKI therapy was calculated with the response to treatment determined by standard imaging techniques.

RESULTS

Outcomes were assessed according to the CTC positivity at baseline, before the patients started TKI for mRCC. At a mean follow-up of 12.4 ± 4.1 months, disease progression was noted in 17 patients (48.6%) including 8 deaths (22.9%). CTC positive patients had a significantly lower progression-free survival rate (12.5% vs. 64.1%, respectively; P = 0.009) but not in the overall survival rate (75% vs. 76.3%, respectively; P = 0.88) in the Kaplan-Meier estimation curves. CTC positivity at baseline significantly predicted a poorer response to TKI (87.5% vs. 37.1%, P = 0.01). The multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis showed that CTC at baseline was the most significant predictor of progression-free survival (hazard ratio 4.17, 95% confidence interval 1.41-11.99, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Baseline CTC detection can be an important prognostic factor of progression-free survival and significant predictor of poor response to TKI in patients with metastatic RCC.

Association of Monoamine Oxidase A with Tumor Burden and Castration Resistance in Prostate Cancer

BACKGROUND

Metastatic burden and aggressive behavior determine severity stratification and guide treatment decisions in prostate cancer (PCa). Monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) may promote tumor burden and drug/castration resistance in PCa. A positive association will pave the way for MAOA inhibitors such as moclobemide for PCa therapy.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze MAOA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells qualitatively and p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, nuclear factor kappa B, and their phosphorylated forms, vascular endothelial growth factor (angiogenesis), transforming growth factor beta, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (cytokines), Bcl-2 associated X, B-cell lymphoma 2, and P53 (apoptosis), prostate-specific membrane antigen, and epithelial cell adhesion molecules (surface markers) in plasma of patients with PCa.

METHODS

This was a 1-year pilot study in which patients with PCa were recruited and stratified into 2 groups and subgroups: treatment-naive with (M1) (n = 23) or without (M0) (n = 23) bone metastasis; hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (n = 26) or hormone/castration-resistant prostate cancer (n = 26). MAOA was detected using ELISA and other proteins were detected using immunoblotting technique.

RESULTS

MAOA was detected in 8.6% of M0 compared with 30.4% of M1 patients, and in 7.7% of hormone-sensitive compared with 27% of hormone/castration resistant PCa patients, associating it with bone metastasis and castration resistance. Multivariable regression analysis showed a correlation of MAOA with serum prostate-specific antigen, a marker for progression in PCa (Pearson correlation coefficient r = 0.30; P < 0.01). In patients with positive MAOA, there was overexpression of p38, phosphorylated-p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinases, nuclear factor kappa B, phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B, transforming growth factor beta, vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor α, Bcl-2 associated X, B-cell lymphoma 2, prostate-specific membrane antigen, and epithelial cell adhesion molecule in M1 compared with M0 group patients, associating these proteins with tumor burden. Overexpression of Bcl-2 associated X, tumor protein 53, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, nuclear factor kappa B, transforming growth factor beta, vascular endothelial growth factor, and prostate-specific membrane antigen and underexpression of B-cell lymphoma 2 and phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B were observed in hormone-sensitive prostate cancer compared with hormone/castration-resistant prostate cancer, associating these proteins with castration resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

Association of key molecules of oncogenesis and metastasis with MAOA suggests that MAOA inhibitors such as moclobemide might be effective in the management of PCa.

Management of Untreated Classical Bladder Exstrophy in Adults: A Single-Institutional Experience

OBJECTIVES

To report our single center experience in the management of untreated adult classical bladder exstrophy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 25 adults aged ≥18 years who underwent repair of the classical bladder exstrophy from April 2000 to February 2020 was performed. Patients with prior repair and neoplastic changes in the exposed bladder mucosa were excluded. The patients and primary caretakers were actively involved in the decision-making of the surgical procedures best suited them. Work-up included upper tract evaluation and random bladder mucosal biopsy.

RESULTS

The mean age of presentation was 25 years. Primary schooling was completed by only 32% patients. The majority (72%) of the patients opted continent catheterizable pouch. Penn pouch was the most common pouch performed. In 3 patients, a complete primary repair was done in a single setting. In 4 patients with lack of education and difficult access to nearby health care settings, ileal conduit was performed. In all except 3 (13.1%), abdominal wall closed primarily. None of the patients required osteotomy. At a mean follow-up of 6.5 years, all patients with continent pouches were continent. One patient required revision of left ureteroneocystostomy at 20 months follow-up. All except one patient, who had complete primary repair were continent at a mean follow-up of 6 years.

CONCLUSION

Management of adult classical bladder exstrophy is challenging. The various pouches extend the surgical options. Ileal conduit may be a simple alternative to complex reconstructions in unmotivated patients with poor access to the hospital.