Defining the role of multiparametric MRI in predicting prostate cancer extracapsular extension.

OBJECTIVES: To identify the predictive factors of prostate cancer extracapsular extension (ECE) in an institutional cohort of patients who underwent multiparametric MRI of the prostate prior to radical prostatectomy (RP). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Overall, 126 patients met the selection criteria, and their medical records were retrospectively collected and analysed; 2 experienced radiologists reviewed the imaging studies. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the variables associated to ECE at whole-mount histology of RP specimens; according to the statistically significant variables associated, a predictive model was developed and calibrated with the Hosmer-Lomeshow test. RESULTS: The predictive ability to detect ECE with the generated model was 81.4% by including the length of capsular involvement (LCI) and intraprostatic perineural invasion (IPNI). The predictive accuracy of the model at the ROC curve analysis showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.83 [95% CI (0.76-0.90)], p < 0.001. Concordance between radiologists was substantial in all parameters examined (p < 0.001). Limitations include the retrospective design, limited number of cases, and MRI images reassessment according to PI-RADS v2.0. CONCLUSION: The LCI is the most robust MRI factor associated to ECE; in our series, we found a strong predictive accuracy when combined in a model with the IPNI presence. This outcome may prompt a change in the definition of PI-RADS score 5.

PI-QUAL version 2: an update of a standardised scoring system for the assessment of image quality of prostate MRI.

Multiparametric MRI is the optimal primary investigation when prostate cancer is suspected, and its ability to rule in and rule out clinically significant disease relies on high-quality anatomical and functional images. Avenues for achieving consistent high-quality acquisitions include meticulous patient preparation, scanner setup, optimised pulse sequences, personnel training, and artificial intelligence systems. The impact of these interventions on the final images needs to be quantified. The prostate imaging quality (PI-QUAL) scoring system was the first standardised quantification method that demonstrated the potential for clinical benefit by relating image quality to cancer detection ability by MRI. We present the updated version of PI-QUAL (PI-QUAL v2) which applies to prostate MRI performed with or without intravenous contrast medium using a simplified 3-point scale focused on critical technical and qualitative image parameters. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: High image quality is crucial for prostate MRI, and the updated version of the PI-QUAL score (PI-QUAL v2) aims to address the limitations of version 1. It is now applicable to both multiparametric MRI and MRI without intravenous contrast medium. KEY POINTS: High-quality images are essential for prostate cancer diagnosis and management using MRI. PI-QUAL v2 simplifies image assessment and expands its applicability to prostate MRI without contrast medium. PI-QUAL v2 focuses on critical technical and qualitative image parameters and emphasises T2-WI and DWI.

The importance of second-look ureteroscopy implementation in the conservative management of upper tract urothelial carcinoma.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of second-look ureteroscopy (SU) in the endoscopic operative work-up of patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with UTUC who underwent SU between 2016 and 2021 were included. Cancer detection rate (CDR) at SU was defined as endoscopic visualization of tumor. The effect of SU on recurrence-free survival (RFS), radical nephroureterectomy-free survival (RNU-FS), bladder cancer-free survival (BC-FS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS) was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariate logistic regression analysis (MLR) assessed predictors of negative SU. Finally, we evaluated the effect of SU timing on oncological outcomes, classifying SUs as "early" (≤ 8 weeks) and "late" (> 8 weeks). RESULTS: Overall, 85 patients underwent SU. The CDR at SU was 44.7%. After a median follow-up was 35 (IQR: 15-56) months, patients with positive SU had a higher rate of UTUC recurrence (47.4% vs 19.1%, p = 0.01) and were more frequently radically treated (34.2% vs 8.5%, p = 0.007). Patients with high-grade disease (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.14, 95% CI 1.18-8.31; p = 0.02) had a higher risk of UTUC recurrence, while high-grade tumor (HR: 3.87, 95%CI 1.08-13.77; p = 0.04) and positive SU (HR: 4.56, 95%CI 1.05-22.81; p = 0.04) were both predictors of RNU. Low-grade tumors [odds ratio (OR): 5.26, 95%CI 1.81-17.07, p = 0.003] and tumor dimension < 20 mm (OR: 5.69, 95%CI 1.48-28.31, p = 0.01) were predictors of negative SU. Finally, no significant difference emerged regarding UTUC recurrence, RNU, BC-FS, and CSM between early vs. late SUs (all p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: SU may help in identifying patients with UTUC experiencing an early recurrence after conservative treatment. Patients with low-grade and small tumors are those in which SU could be safely postponed after 8 weeks.

Optimizing decision-making process of benign uretero-enteric anastomotic stricture treatment after radical cystectomy.

PURPOSE: To identify preoperative predictors of endo-urological treatment (EUT) failure while promoting a new diagnostic and therapeutic pathway for benign uretero-enteric anastomosis stricture (UES) management after radical cystectomy (RC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We relied on a prospectively maintained database including 96 individuals (122 renal units) who developed a benign UES at our institution between 1990 and 2018. UES was classified into two different types according to morphology: FP1 (i.e., sharp or duckbill) and FP2 (i.e., flat or concave). EUT feasibility, success rate, as well as intra and postoperative complications were recorded. Uni- and multivariable logistic regression analysis (MVA) assessed for predictors of EUT failure. RESULTS: Overall, 78 (63.9%) and 32 (26.3%) cases were defined as FP1 and FP2, respectively. EUT was not feasible in 33 (27.1%) cases. After a median follow-up of 50 (IQR 5-240) months, successful treatment was reached only in 15/122 (12.3%) cases. EUT success rates raised when considering short (< 1 cm) (16.8%), FP1 morphology (16.7%) strictures, or the combination of these characteristics (22.4%). Overall, 5 (5.2%) cases had CD ≥ III complications. FP2 (OR: 1.91, 95%CI 1.21-5.31, p = 0.03) and stricture length ≥ 1 cm (OR: 9.08, 95%CI 2.09-65.71, p = 0.009) were associated with treatment failure at MVA. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic treatment for benign UES after RC is feasible but harbors a low success rate. Stricture length and radiological morphology of the stricture are related to endoscopic treatment failure. Surgeons should be aware of the stricture features during the preoperative decision-making process to choose the optimal candidate for endoscopic treatment.

Expanding inclusion criteria for active surveillance in intermediate-risk prostate cancer: a machine learning approach.

PURPOSE: To develop new selection criteria for active surveillance (AS) in intermediate-risk (IR) prostate cancer (PCa) patients. METHODS: Retrospective study including patients from 14 referral centers who underwent pre-biopsy mpMRI, image-guided biopsies and radical prostatectomy. The cohort included biopsy-naive IR PCa patients who met the following inclusion criteria: Gleason Grade Group (GGG) 1-2, PSA < 20 ng/mL, and cT1-cT2 tumors. We relied on a recursive machine learning partitioning algorithm developed to predict adverse pathological features (i.e., ≥ pT3a and/or pN + and/or GGG ≥ 3). RESULTS: A total of 594 patients with IR PCa were included, of whom 220 (37%) had adverse features. PI-RADS score (weight:0.726), PSA density (weight:0.158), and clinical T stage (weight:0.116) were selected as the most informative risk factors to classify patients according to their risk of adverse features, leading to the creation of five risk clusters. The adverse feature rates for cluster #1 (PI-RADS ≤ 3 and PSA density < 0.15), cluster #2 (PI-RADS 4 and PSA density < 0.15), cluster #3 (PI-RADS 1-4 and PSA density ≥ 0.15), cluster #4 (normal DRE and PI-RADS 5), and cluster #5 (abnormal DRE and PI-RADS 5) were 11.8, 27.9, 37.3, 42.7, and 65.1%, respectively. Compared with the current inclusion criteria, extending the AS criteria to clusters #1 + #2 or #1 + #2 + #3 would increase the number of eligible patients (+ 60 and + 253%, respectively) without increasing the risk of adverse pathological features. CONCLUSIONS: The newly developed model has the potential to expand the number of patients eligible for AS without compromising oncologic outcomes. Prospective validation is warranted.

DNA Methylation Urine Biomarkers Test in the Diagnosis of Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: Results from a Single-Center Prospective Clinical Trial.

PURPOSE: The correct risk categorization and staging of upper tract urothelial cancer (UTUC) is key for disease management. Computerized tomography urography and urinary cytology have limited accuracy for risk stratification of UTUC. Ureteroscopy may increase the risk of bladder cancer recurrence. Recently, Bladder EpiCheckTM (EpiCheck) showed a high accuracy in the detection of bladder cancer. The aim of the study is to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of EpiCheck in the clinical management of UTUC and to compare it with urinary cytology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this single-arm, blinded, prospective, single-center study (February 2019-December 2020), all patients who were candidates for ureteroscopy for suspicion of UTUC were included. Bladder and upper urinary tract (UUT) samples were collected before ureteroscopy to test for cytology and Epicheck. EpiCheck accuracy was calculated in bladder and UUT samples and compared to cytology. RESULTS: EpiCheck resulted diagnostic in 83/86 (97%) and 73/75 (97%) of UUT and bladder samples. Histology was positive in 47/83 (57%) and 42/73 (58%) cases, respectively. In UUT samples, EpiCheck yielded a sensitivity/specificity/ negative predictive value (NPV)/positive predictive value of 83%/79%/77%/84% vs 59%/88%/61%/87% of cytology. The sensitivity/NPV for high-grade tumors was 96%/97% for EpiCheck vs 71%/86% for cytology. EpiCheck indicated ureteroscopy in 45/80 (56%) patients, missing 17%/4% of all/high-grade UTUC with 9% of unnecessary ureteroscopy. In bladder samples, the sensitivity/NPV for high-grade tumors was 71%/88% for EpiCheck and 59%/87% for cytology. CONCLUSIONS: Epicheck may be an important tool to decrease the number of unnecessary ureteroscopy. The clinical implementation of EpiCheck in UTUC warrants further investigation in multicentric prospective randomized trials.

Association of Prostate Cancer with Nuts, Seeds, Alcohol and Processed Meats: A Worldwide Population-Based Study.

There are conflicting data with regards to the link between diet and the prostate cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the association of dietary factors with incidence, prevalence and mortality rates of prostate cancer worldwide. We conducted an ecological study including 170 countries, whose data on incidence, prevalence and mortality rates of prostate cancer, dietary factors, and potentially confounding factors were available and collected in May 2020. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were used. Consumption of nuts and seeds was inversely associated with incidence, prevalence and mortality rates of prostate cancer (ß -0.7, P < 0.001; ß -2.1, P < 0.001; ß -0.1, P = 0.02; respectively). Intake of alcohol was associated with increased incidence, prevalence and mortality rates of prostate cancer (ß 1.8, P < 0.001; ß 4.5, P < 0.001; ß 0.4, P < 0.001; respectively). Consumption of processed meats was also associated with increased incidence and prevalence rates of prostate cancer (ß 0.6, P = 0.003; ß 2.8, P = 0.001; respectively). These data suggest that consumption of nuts and seeds have a protective effect against prostate carcinogenesis, progression, and metastasis, while alcohol and processed meat increase these risks.

Impact of Resection Technique on Perioperative Outcomes and Surgical Margins after Partial Nephrectomy for Localized Renal Masses: A Prospective Multicenter Study.

PURPOSE: The impact of resection technique on partial nephrectomy outcomes is controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pattern of resection techniques during partial nephrectomy and the impact on perioperative outcomes, acute kidney injury, positive surgical margins and the achievement of the Trifecta (negative surgical margins, no perioperative Clavien-Dindo grade 2 or greater surgical complications and no postoperative acute kidney injury). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We prospectively collected data on consecutive patients with cT1-2N0M0 renal masses treated with partial nephrectomy at a total of 16 referral centers from September 2014 to March 2015. After partial nephrectomy the resection technique was classified by the surgeon as enucleation, enucleoresection or resection according to the SIB (Surface-Intermediate-Base) margin scores 0 to 2, 3 or 4 and 5, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to evaluate the potential impact of the resection technique on postoperative surgical complications, positive surgical margins, acute kidney injury and Trifecta achievement. RESULTS: Overall 507 patients were included in analysis. The resection technique was classified as enucleation in 266 patients (52%), enucleoresection in 150 (30%) and resection in 91 (18%). The resection technique (enucleoresection vs enucleation and resection) was the only significant predictor of positive surgical margins. Tumor complexity, surgical approach (open and laparoscopic vs robotic) and resection technique (enucleoresection vs enucleation) were significant predictors of Clavien-Dindo grade 2 or greater surgical complications. The surgical approach (open and laparoscopic vs robotic), the resection technique (enucleoresection vs enucleation) and warm ischemia time were significantly associated with postoperative acute kidney injury and Trifecta achievement. CONCLUSIONS: Resection techniques significantly impact surgical complications, early functional outcomes and positive surgical margins after partial nephrectomy of localized renal masses.

Comparison of biopsy devices in upper tract urothelial carcinoma.

INTRODUCTION: A correct characterization of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) lesions is fundamental to appropriately select patients suitable for endoscopic management. We analyzed the diagnostic yield of three different biopsy tools for the histology evaluation of the UTUC. Furthermore, the concordance between biopsy grading and final UTUC pathology results at specimen (i.e., after ureterectomy or radical nephroureterectomy-RNU) was evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three different devices were evaluated: 3F biopsy forceps, 6F BIGopsy® Backloading biopsy forceps and the 2.2F Nitinol Basket. Data were collected between January 2015 and October 2017 and retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the variables related to diagnosis. RESULTS: A total of 302 biopsies were taken: lesions could be characterized in 236 (78.2%) specimens by the pathologist. Positive biopsies for UTUC were found in 140 specimens. In 66 biopsies (21.8%), the quality of the tissue sampled was inadequate for a histological characterization; of these, 55 (83.3%) were taken using 3F forceps and 11 (16.7%) using BIGopsy forceps. No inadequate specimen arose using the 2.2F Nitinol Basket. Among 28 patients who underwent distal ureterectomy or RNU, the tumor was upgraded to high grade in 9 (32%), while in 19 (68%) the grading was confirmed. CONCLUSION: In comparison to 3F forceps, the BIGopsy forceps showed to be more accurate in obtaining sufficient specimen for pathologic examination. In papillary lesions, the 2.2F Nitinol basket achieves a final histology characterization in 100% of the cases. For tumor < 2 cm, there is a high concordance between URS biopsy grade and final pathology (distal ureterectomy or RNU).

Cytoreductive nephrectomy in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma in the era of targeted therapy: a bibliographic review.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the role of cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC), against a background of lack of evidence following the introduction of targeted therapy. METHODS: A literature review was performed in January 2017 using the MEDLINE/PubMed and EMBASE databases. The PRISMA guidelines were followed for conduct of the study. Two authors independently screened the 270 papers retrieved from the search, and the finally selected publications were identified by consensus between the two reviewers. A total of 55 studies were included in the present review. RESULTS: Globally, the indications for CN have decreased over recent years. Although current guidelines consider CN an adequate option in selected patients based on prospective studies in the cytokine era, evidence for CN in the era of targeted therapy is based on retrospective studies only. CONCLUSIONS: The results of ongoing prospective studies are still awaited. Retrospective data suggest that young male patients with oligometastatic disease and a good performance status can be considered suitable surgical candidates who may benefit from CN.

The German linguistic validation of the Ureteral Stent Symptoms Questionnaire (USSQ).

PURPOSE: We developed and validated the German version of the Ureteral Stent Symptoms Questionnaire (USSQ) for male and female patients with indwelling ureteral stents. METHODS: The German version of the USSQ was developed following a well-established multistep process. A total of 101 patients with indwelling ureteral stents completed the German USSQ as well as the validated questionnaires International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) or International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ) and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Patients completed questionnaires at 1 and 2-4 weeks after stent insertion and 4 weeks after stent removal. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the psychometric properties of the questionnaire. RESULTS: The German version of the USSQ showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = .72-.88) and test-retest reliability [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = .81-.92]. Inter-domain associations within the USSQ showed substantial correlations between different USSQ domains, indicating a high conceptual relationship of the domains. Except from urinary symptoms and general quality of life, German USSQ showed good convergent validity with the corresponding validated questionnaires. All USSQ domains showed significant sensitivity to change (p ≤ .001). CONCLUSION: The new German version of the USSQ proved to be a reliable and robust instrument for the evaluation of ureteral stent-associated morbidity for both male and female patients. It is expected to be a valid outcome measure in the future stent research.

Use of XenX™, the latest ureteric occlusion device with guide wire utility: results from a prospective multicentric comparative study.

PURPOSE: This is a prospective multicentric comparative study evaluating the performance of XenX-a new dual-purpose device for the prevention of stone fragments migration during ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URS). METHODS: Between March 2014 and January 2015, 41 patients undertaking URS + XenX were matched with 41 patients undergoing standard URS. Patients included had unilateral ureteric stone(s) of 0.5-1.5 cm in maximum size. Demographics, complication rates and surgical outcomes were recorded for comparison. A Likert-like 5-grade scoring system was used for surgeons' evaluation of XenX properties. Cost analysis was performed by comparing weighted mean costs of the relevant procedures. RESULTS: Patients' characteristics between the two groups were comparable. Lasering time was longer for XenX group (13.59 vs. 5.17 min; p = 0.0001) whilst use of basket and need of JJ stent insertion was more frequent in control group (19.5 vs. 97.6 %; p = 0.0001 and 22 vs. 35 %; p = 0.001, respectively). Intra-operative SFR was significantly higher for XenX group (100 vs. 85.4 %; p = 0.0001), but not at 4-week follow-up, after ancillary procedures were needed in 17.1 % of the control group. Surgeons' evaluations for XenX were suboptimal for "Ease of Basketing" (2/5) and "Advancement of double J stent" (3/5). The use of XenX increased costs of procedures, but spared the costs associated to ancillary procedures and stent removals. CONCLUSIONS: XenX confirmed to be a safe and effective device especially for the treatment of upper ureteric tract stones; moreover, XenX may reduce the risk for the need of auxiliary procedures and for the insertion of a JJ stent.

Diagnosis and treatment of unusual multiorgan Echinococcus hydatid cysts.

Background: Echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus. Usually, the liver is the most affected organ, accounting for approximately 70% to 85% of cases. The lungs represent 20% of the cases. Fewer than 10% are found in other sites, including the bone, brain, spleen, and kidneys. Case presentation: A young man was referred to a local hospital for dull pain in the right flank, fever, and mild cough. Computed tomography showed 2 large cysts: the first involved the left lung and measured 130 × 90.5 × 120 mm, whereas the second cyst was located in the right kidney and measured 130 × 100 × 120 mm. Surgery was performed to remove both lesions in 2 separate surgical sessions. Conclusions: Echinococcosis is a compulsorily notifiable disease. Collaboration between medical doctors from different specializations is necessary. A multidisciplinary approach is important for the correct therapeutic management of the disease. Furthermore, the high possibility of recurrence makes the long-term follow-up mandatory.

The Role of 99mTc-Sestamibi Single-photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography in the Diagnostic Pathway for Renal Masses: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

CONTEXT: The diagnostic accuracy of current imaging techniques in differentiating benign from malignant neoplasms in the case of indeterminate renal masses is still suboptimal. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of 99mTc-sestamibi (SestaMIBI) single-photon emission tomography computed tomography (SPECT)/CT in characterizing indeterminate renal masses by differentiating renal oncocytoma and hybrid oncocytic/chromophobe tumor (HOCT) from (1) all other renal lesions and (2) all malignant renal lesions. Secondary outcomes were: (1) benign versus malignant; (2) renal oncocytoma and HOCT versus clear cell (ccRCC) and papillary (pRCC) renal cell carcinoma; and (3) renal oncocytoma and HOCT versus chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (chRCC). EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A literature search was conducted up to November 2022 using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed to identify eligible studies. Studies included were prospective and retrospective cross-sectional studies in which SestaMIBI SPECT/CT findings were compared to histology after renal mass biopsy or surgery. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Overall, eight studies involving 489 patients with 501 renal masses met our inclusion criteria. The sensitivity and specificity of SestaMIBI SPECT/CT for renal oncocytoma and HOCT versus all other renal lesions were 89% (95% confidence interval [CI] 70-97%) and 89% (95% CI 86-92%), respectively. Notably, for renal oncocytoma and HOCT versus ccRCC and pRCC, SestaMIBI SPECT/CT showed specificity of 98% (95% CI 91-100%) and similar sensitivity. Owing to the relatively high risk of bias and the presence of heterogeneity among the studies included, the level of evidence is still low. CONCLUSIONS: SestaMIBI SPECT/CT has good sensitivity and specificity in differentiating renal oncocytoma and HOCT from all other renal lesions, and in particular from those with more aggressive oncological behavior. Although these results are promising, further studies are needed to support the use of SestaMIBI SPECT/CT outside research trials. PATIENT SUMMARY: A scan method called SestaMIBI SPECT/CT has promise for diagnosing whether kidney tumors are malignant or not. However, it should still be limited to research trials because the level of evidence from our review is low.

A Systematic Review on the Diagnostic Value of Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor PET/CT in Genitourinary Cancers.

In contemporary oncologic diagnostics, molecular imaging modalities are pivotal for precise local and metastatic staging. Recent studies identified fibroblast activation protein as a promising target for molecular imaging across various malignancies. Therefore, we aimed to systematically evaluate the current literature on the utility of fibroblast activation protein inhibitor (FAPI) PET/CT for staging patients with genitourinary malignancies. Methods: A systematic Embase and Medline search was conducted, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) process, on August 1, 2023. Relevant publications reporting on the diagnostic value of FAPI PET/CT in genitourinary malignancies were identified and included. Studies were critically reviewed using a modified version of a tool for quality appraisal of case reports. Study results were summarized using a narrative approach. Results: We included 22 retrospective studies with a cumulative total of 69 patients, focusing on prostate cancer, urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and of the upper urinary tract, renal cell carcinoma, and testicular cancer. FAPI PET/CT was able to visualize both local and metastatic disease, including challenging cases such as prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-negative prostate cancer. Compared with radiolabeled 18F-FDG and PSMA PET/CT, FAPI PET/CT showed heterogeneous performance. In selected cases, FAPI PET/CT demonstrated superior tumor visualization (i.e., better tumor-to-background ratios and visualization of small tumors or metastatic deposits visible in no other way) over 18F-FDG PET/CT in detecting local or metastatic disease, whereas comparisons with PSMA PET/CT showed both superior and inferior performances. Challenges in FAPI PET/CT arise from physiologic urinary excretion of most FAPI radiotracers, hindering primary-lesion visualization in the bladder and upper urinary tract, despite generally providing high tumor-to-background ratios. Conclusion: The current findings suggest that FAPI PET/CT may hold promise as a future tool to aid clinicians in detecting genitourinary malignancies. Given the substantial heterogeneity among the included studies and the limited number of patients, caution in interpreting these findings is warranted. Subsequent prospective and comparative investigations are anticipated to delve more deeply into this innovative imaging modality and elucidate its role in clinical practice.

Clinical application of bladder MRI and the Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System.

Diagnostic work-up and risk stratification in patients with bladder cancer before and after treatment must be refined to optimize management and improve outcomes. MRI has been suggested as a non-invasive technique for bladder cancer staging and assessment of response to systemic therapy. The Vesical Imaging-Reporting And Data System (VI-RADS) was developed to standardize bladder MRI image acquisition, interpretation and reporting and enables accurate prediction of muscle-wall invasion of bladder cancer. MRI is available in many centres but is not yet recommended as a first-line test for bladder cancer owing to a lack of high-quality evidence. Consensus-based evidence on the use of MRI-VI-RADS for bladder cancer care is needed to serve as a benchmark for formulating guidelines and research agendas until further evidence from randomized trials becomes available.

PRECISE Version 2: Updated Recommendations for Reporting Prostate Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients on Active Surveillance for Prostate Cancer.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The Prostate Cancer Radiological Estimation of Change in Sequential Evaluation (PRECISE) recommendations standardise the reporting of prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients on active surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer. An international consensus group recently updated these recommendations and identified the areas of uncertainty. METHODS: A panel of 38 experts used the formal RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method consensus methodology. Panellists scored 193 statements using a 1-9 agreement scale, where 9 means full agreement. A summary of agreement, uncertainty, or disagreement (derived from the group median score) and consensus (determined using the Interpercentile Range Adjusted for Symmetry method) was calculated for each statement and presented for discussion before individual rescoring. KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS: Participants agreed that MRI scans must meet a minimum image quality standard (median 9) or be given a score of 'X' for insufficient quality. The current scan should be compared with both baseline and previous scans (median 9), with the PRECISE score being the maximum from any lesion (median 8). PRECISE 3 (stable MRI) was subdivided into 3-V (visible) and 3-NonV (nonvisible) disease (median 9). Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System/Likert ≥3 lesions should be measured on T2-weighted imaging, using other sequences to aid in the identification (median 8), and whenever possible, reported pictorially (diagrams, screenshots, or contours; median 9). There was no consensus on how to measure tumour size. More research is needed to determine a significant size increase (median 9). PRECISE 5 was clarified as progression to stage ≥T3a (median 9). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The updated PRECISE recommendations reflect expert consensus opinion on minimal standards and reporting criteria for prostate MRI in AS. PATIENT SUMMARY: The Prostate Cancer Radiological Estimation of Change in Sequential Evaluation (PRECISE) recommendations are used in clinical practice and research to guide the interpretation and reporting of magnetic resonance imaging for patients on active surveillance for prostate cancer. An international panel has updated these recommendations, clarified the areas of uncertainty, and highlighted the areas for further research.

The impact of intravesical gemcitabine and 1/3 dose Bacillus Calmette-Guérin instillation therapy on the quality of life in patients with nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer: results of a prospective, randomized, phase II trial.

PURPOSE: Bacillus Calmette-Guérin and intravesical chemotherapy represent viable adjuvant options for intermediate risk nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer. Although bacillus Calmette-Guérin is perceived as less tolerable than intravesical chemotherapy, to our knowledge no comparative studies have addressed quality of life issues. We compared the quality of life of patients with nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer who received adjuvant intravesical gemcitabine or 1/3 dose bacillus Calmette-Guérin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Our multicenter, prospective, randomized, phase II study included 120 patients with intermediate risk nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer. Of these patients 88 remained assessable at 1-year followup. Only 1 patient was withdrawn because of adverse events. Overall 61 patients received 2,000 mg/50 cc gemcitabine weekly for 6 weeks (maintenance monthly for 1 year) while 59 received 1/3 dose bacillus Calmette-Guérin Connaught weekly for 6 weeks (maintenance 3 weekly instillations at 3, 6 and 12 months). Quality of life was measured by the EORTC QLQ-C30 (European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 version 3.0) and QLQ-BLS24 (Quality of Life Superficial Bladder Cancer-Specific 24) questionnaires. Group differences were calculated using ANOVA (ANOVA/MANOVA). RESULTS: Treatment was well tolerated in both groups, although local and systemic side effects were more frequently reported in the bacillus Calmette-Guérin arm. Multivariate analyses showed no significant differences between the 2 groups in all quality of life dimensions. No significant changes over time in quality of life domains were detected for patients on bacillus Calmette-Guérin and gemcitabine except for physical functioning, which decreased significantly in both groups (p = 0.002). No significant differences were detected in terms of recurrence and progression between the 2 groups at 1-year followup. CONCLUSIONS: While a higher rate of side effects, albeit mild to moderate, was detected with 1/3 dose bacillus Calmette-Guérin compared to gemcitabine, our study failed to show significant differences between the 2 drugs in terms of quality of life.