Predicting contralateral extraprostatic extension in unilateral high-risk prostate cancer: a multicentric external validation study.

PURPOSE: Accurate prediction of extraprostatic extension (EPE) is crucial for decision-making in radical prostatectomy (RP), especially in nerve-sparing strategies. Martini et al. introduced a three-tier algorithm for predicting contralateral EPE in unilateral high-risk prostate cancer (PCa). The aim of the study is to externally validate this model in a multicentric European cohort of patients. METHODS: The data from 208 unilateral high-risk PCa patients diagnosed through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-targeted and systematic biopsies, treated with RP between January 2016 and November 2021 at eight referral centers were collected. The evaluation of model performance involved measures such as discrimination (AUC), calibration, and decision-curve analysis (DCA) following TRIPOD guidelines. In addition, a comparison was made with two established multivariable logistic regression models predicting the risk of side specific EPE for assessment purposes. RESULTS: Overall, 38%, 48%, and 14% of patients were categorized as low, intermediate, and high-risk groups according to Martini et al.'s model, respectively. At final pathology, EPE on the contralateral prostatic lobe occurred in 6.3%, 12%, and 34% of patients in the respective risk groups. The algorithm demonstrated acceptable discrimination (AUC 0.68), comparable to other multivariable logistic regression models (p = 0.3), adequate calibration and the highest net benefit in DCA. The limitations include the modest sample size, retrospective design, and lack of central revision. CONCLUSION: Our findings endorse the algorithm's commendable performance, supporting its utility in guiding treatment decisions for unilateral high-risk PCa patients.

Does Overgrading on Targeted Biopsy of Magnetic Resonance Imaging-visible Lesions in Prostate Cancer Lead to Overtreatment?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Targeted biopsy of the index prostate cancer (PCa) lesion on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is effective in reducing the risk of overdiagnosis of indolent PCa. However, it remains to be determined whether MRI-targeted biopsy can lead to a stage shift via overgrading of the index lesion by focusing only on the highest-grade component, and to a subsequent risk of overtreatment. Our aim was to assess whether overgrading on MRI-targeted biopsy may lead to overtreatment, using radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens as the reference standard. METHODS: Patients with clinically localized PCa who had positive MRI findings (Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System [PI-RADS] score ≥3) and Gleason grade group (GG) ≥2 disease detected on MRI-targeted biopsy were retrospectively identified from a prospectively maintained database that records all RP procedures from eight referral centers. Biopsy grade was defined as the highest grade detected. Downgrading was defined as lower GG for the RP specimen than for MRI-targeted biopsy. Overtreatment was defined as downgrading to RP GG 1 for cases with GG ≥2 on biopsy, or to RP low-burden GG 2 for cases with GG ≥3 on biopsy. KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS: We included 1020 consecutive biopsy-naïve patients with GG ≥2 PCa on MRI-targeted biopsy in the study. Pathological analysis of RP specimens showed downgrading in 178 patients (17%). The transperineal biopsy route was significantly associated with a lower risk of downgrading (odds ratio 0.364, 95% confidence interval 0.142-0.814; p = 0.022). Among 555 patients with GG 2 on targeted biopsy, only 18 (3.2%) were downgraded to GG 1 on RP. Among 465 patients with GG ≥3 on targeted biopsy, three (0.6%) were downgraded to GG 1 and seven were downgraded to low-burden GG 2 on RP. The overall risk of overtreatment due to targeted biopsy was 2.7% (28/1020). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Our multicenter study revealed no strong evidence that targeted biopsy results could lead to a high risk of overtreatment. PATIENT SUMMARY: In the diagnosis pathway for prostate cancer, results for targeted biopsies guided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans lead to a negligible proportion of overtreatment.

MRI lesion size is more important than the number of positive biopsy cores in predicting adverse features and recurrence after radical prostatectomy: implications for active surveillance criteria in intermediate-risk patients.

INTRODUCTION: To determine associations between prostate cancer (PCa) tumor burden measured on biopsy or multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and outcomes in intermediate-risk (IR) International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade 2 men managed with primary radical prostatectomy (RP). METHODS: This retrospective, multicenter study was conducted in eight referral centers. The cohort included IR PCa patients who had ISUP 2 at biopsy. We defined biopsy tumor burden as low/high based on the absence/presence of more than 25% positive cores. Tumor burden on imaging was defined as low/high based on maximum lesion diameter, <15 mm and ≥15 mm at mpMRI, respectively. The histological endpoint of the study was adverse features at RP, defined as ≥pT3a stage and/or lymph node invasion and/or ISUP ≥3 at final pathology. The clinical endpoint was biochemical recurrence (BCR) after RP. RESULTS: A total of 698 IR patients was included, of whom 335 (48%) had adverse features. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, there was no statistical association between tumor burden at biopsy and adverse features (p = 0.7). Tumor size ≥15 mm at mpMRI was significantly associated with adverse pathology (OR 1.65, 95%CI 1.14-2.39; p = 0.01). No significant association was observed between tumor burden at biopsy and BCR (p = 0.4). Tumor size ≥15 mm at mpMRI was significantly associated with BCR (HR 1.96, 95% CI 1.01-3.80; p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Our data support extending the inclusion criteria to ISUP 2 men with >25% positive cores, provided they have a low tumor size at mpMRI (<15 mm). Prospective studies should be performed to validate these findings.

A Novel Nomogram to Identify Candidates for Focal Therapy Among Patients with Localized Prostate Cancer Diagnosed via Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Targeted and Systematic Biopsies: A European Multicenter Study.

BACKGROUND: Suitable selection criteria for focal therapy (FT) are crucial to achieve success in localized prostate cancer (PCa). OBJECTIVE: To develop a multivariable model that better delineates eligibility for FT and reduces undertreatment by predicting unfavorable disease at radical prostatectomy (RP). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Data were retrospectively collected from a prospective European multicenter cohort of 767 patients who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-targeted and systematic biopsies followed by RP in eight referral centers between 2016 and 2021. The Imperial College of London eligibility criteria for FT were applied: (1) unifocal MRI lesion with Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System score of 3-5; (2) prostate-specific antigen (PSA) ≤20 ng/ml; (3) cT2-3a stage on MRI; and (4) International Society of Urological Pathology grade group (GG) 1 and ≥6 mm or GG 2-3. A total of 334 patients were included in the final analysis. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The primary outcome was unfavorable disease at RP, defined as GG ≥4, and/or lymph node invasion, and/or seminal vesicle invasion, and/or contralateral clinically significant PCa. Logistic regression was used to assess predictors of unfavorable disease. The performance of the models including clinical, MRI, and biopsy information was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration plots, and decision curve analysis. A coefficient-based nomogram was developed and internally validated. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: Overall, 43 patients (13%) had unfavorable disease on RP pathology. The model including PSA, clinical stage on digital rectal examination, and maximum lesion diameter on MRI had an AUC of 73% on internal validation and formed the basis of the nomogram. Addition of other MRI or biopsy information did not significantly improve the model performance. Using a cutoff of 25%, the proportion of patients eligible for FT was 89% at the cost of missing 30 patients (10%) with unfavorable disease. External validation is required before the nomogram can be used in clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS: We report the first nomogram that improves selection criteria for FT and limits the risk of undertreatment. PATIENT SUMMARY: We conducted a study to develop a better way of selecting patients for focal therapy for localized prostate cancer. A novel predictive tool was developed using the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level measured before biopsy, tumor stage assessed via digital rectal examination, and lesion size on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. This tool improves the prediction of unfavorable disease and may reduce the risk of undertreatment of localized prostate cancer when using focal therapy.

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.

Risk stratification for early biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer in the era of multiparametric magnetic resonance imagining-targeted biopsy.

BACKGROUND: Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MRI-targeted biopsy are nowadays recommended in the prostate cancer (PCa) diagnostic pathway. Ploussard and Mazzone have integrated these tools into novel risk classification systems predicting the risk of early biochemical recurrence (eBCR) in PCa patients who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP). We aimed to assess available risk classification systems and to define the best-performing. METHODS: Data on 1371 patients diagnosed by MRI-targeted biopsy and treated by RP between 2014 and 2022 at eight European tertiary referral centers were analyzed. Risk classifications systems included were the European Association of Urology (EAU) and National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) risk groups, the Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment (CAPRA) score, the International Staging Collaboration for Cancer of the Prostate (STAR-CAP) classification, the Ploussard and Mazzone models, and ISUP grade group. Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to compare eBCR among risk classification systems. Performance was assessed in terms of discrimination quantified using Harrell's c-index, calibration, and decision curve analysis (DCA). RESULTS: Overall, 152 (11%) patients had eBCR at a median follow-up of 31 months (interquartile range: 19-45). The 3-year eBCR-free survival rate was 91% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 89-93). For each risk classification system, a significant difference among survival probabilities was observed (log-rank test p < 0.05) except for NCCN classification (p = 0.06). The highest discrimination was obtained with the STAR-CAP classification (c-index 66%) compared to CAPRA score (63% vs. 66%, p = 0.2), ISUP grade group (62% vs. 66, p = 0.07), Ploussard (61% vs. 66%, p = 0.003) and Mazzone models (59% vs. 66%, p = 0.02), and EAU (57% vs. 66%, p < 0.001) and NCCN (57% vs. 66%, p < 0.001) risk groups. Risk classification systems demonstrated good calibration characteristics. At DCA, the CAPRA score showed the highest net benefit at a probability threshold of 9%-15%. CONCLUSIONS: The performance of risk classification systems using MRI and MRI-targeted information was less optimistic when tested in a contemporary set of patients. CAPRA score and STAR-CAP classification were the best-performing and should be preferred for treatment decision-making.

Optimizing multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging-targeted biopsy and prostate cancer grading accuracy.

PURPOSE: To assess the most efficient biopsy method to improve International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade group accuracy with final pathology of the radical prostatectomy (RP) specimen in the era of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-driven pathway. METHODS: A total of 753 patients diagnosed by transrectal MRI-targeted and systematic biopsies (namely "standard method"), treated by RP, between 2016 and 2021 were evaluated. Biopsy methods included MRI-targeted biopsy, side-specific systematic biopsies relative to index MRI lesion and combination of both. Number of MRI-targeted biopsy cores and positive cores needed per index MRI lesion were assessed. Multivariable analysis was performed to analyze predictive factors of upgrading using MRI targeted and ipsilateral systematic biopsies method. RESULTS: Overall, ISUP grade group accuracy varied among biopsy methods with upgrading rate of 35%, 49%, 27%, and 24% for MRI targeted, systematic, MRI targeted and ipsilateral systematic biopsies and standard methods, respectively (p < 0.001). A minimum of two positive MRI-targeted biopsies cores per index MRI lesion were required when testing MRI targeted and ipsilateral systematic biopsies method to reach equivalent accuracy compared to standard method. Omitting contralateral systematic biopsies spared an average of 5.9 cores per patient. At multivariable analysis, only the number of positive MRI-targeted biopsy cores per index MRI lesion was predictive of upgrading. CONCLUSION: MRI targeted and ipsilateral systematic biopsies allowed an accurate definition of ISUP grade group and appears to be an interesting alternative when compared with standard method, reducing total number of biopsy cores needed.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging-based T-staging to Predict Biochemical Recurrence after Radical Prostatectomy: A Step Towards the iTNM Classification.

BACKGROUND: Local staging of prostate cancer (PCa) still relies on digital rectal examination (DRE), which therefore remains the standard for risk stratification in guideline recommendations, clinical trials, and patient counseling. This issue is increasingly controversial as multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) has become the most influential diagnostic tool for local staging of PCa over the past two decades. OBJECTIVE: To compare various models of T category based on DRE or mpMRI to predict early biochemical recurrence (BCR) after radical prostatectomy (RP). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: A retrospective multicenter cohort study was conducted between 2014 and 2021. A total of 1436 patients were recruited across eight referral centers in France, Italy, Switzerland, and Belgium. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: BCR was defined as two prostate-specific antigen values of ≥0.2 ng/ml during follow-up. Harrell's concordance index (C index) was used to compare the discrimination of four models of T staging based on DRE (model 1: cT1 vs cT2 vs cT3) or mpMRI (model 2: organ-confined disease vs extracapsular extension [iECE] vs seminal vesicle invasion [iSVI]; model 3: Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System [PI-RADS] ≤3 vs PI-RADS 4 vs PI-RADS 5; and model 4: iT2a [PI-RADS ≤3] vs iT2b [PI-RADS 4] vs iT2c [PI-RADS 5 excluding ECE or SVI] vs iT3a [ECE] vs iT3b [SVI]) to predict BCR. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: Overall, 74 (5%), 845 (59%), 482 (34%), and 35 (2%) patients had low-, intermediate-, high-, and very high-risk PCa, respectively, according to the Mazzone risk classification. After median follow-up of 16 mo, 113 patients experienced BCR. Although the new five-group mpMRI-based T classification system (model 4) had the highest prognostic discrimination (C index 0.694) for predicting early BCR on multivariable analysis, there was overlap between the 95% confidence intervals of the models. On sensitivity analysis, the new mpMRI-based T staging still had a higher C index than DRE for predicting BCR when excluding cN1 patients and comparing it with a five-group DRE-based T classification (cT1c vs cT2a vs cT2b vs cT2c vs cT3), but the overlap between the 95% confidence intervals of the models remained. The main limitation is the short follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: We described an alternative mpMRI-based T staging for prediction of early BCR after RP for PCa. Our results need to be validated externally before they can be applied in clinical practice. PATIENT SUMMARY: At present, digital rectal examination of the prostate is used to stage prostate cancer. We developed an alternative model for staging that uses information from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to predict cancer outcomes for men undergoing surgical removal of the prostate.

Does using a laser improve outcomes of conventional circumcision in adult and children populations? Results from a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Male circumcision is a well-known old surgery, and several recently developed techniques have been scaled up, including the introduction of laser technology, as alternative approaches to overcome morbidity of conventional surgery scalpel/suture method OBJECTIVES: We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing laser circumcision versus conventional circumcision technique in terms of perioperative outcomes and efficacy (complications, unacceptable appearance, reoperation rate) both in children and adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This review was performed following the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework. Continuous variables were analyzed using the inverse variance of the mean difference with a random effect, 95% confidence interval (CI), and p-value. The incidence of complications, unacceptable appearance, and reoperation rate were pooled using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel Method with the random effect model and reported as odds ratio (OR), 95% CI, and p-value. Significance was set at p-value ≤0.05 and 95%CI. RESULTS: Seven studies were included. In comparison to the conventional circumcision, laser circumcision shoved lower visual analogue score at 24-h, and 7 days after surgery, a lower rate of overall complication rate (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.24-0.47, p < 0.001), scarring (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.02, 0.41, p = 0.002), and unacceptable appearance (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.05, 0.15, p < 0.001). We found no statistically significant difference in surgical time, and incidence of bleeding, infection, wound dehiscence, and reoperation rate. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Our review infers that laser-assisted circumcision is certainly a safe and strong contender as the procedure of choice in both children and adult populations.

Expanding Active Surveillance Criteria for Low- and Intermediate-risk Prostate Cancer: Can We Accurately Predict the Risk of Misclassification for Patients Diagnosed by Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging-targeted Biopsy?

Models predicting the risk of adverse pathology (ie, International Society of Urological Pathology [ISUP] grade group ≥3, pT3, and/or pN1) among patients operated by radical prostatectomy (RP) have been proposed to expand active surveillance (AS) inclusion criteria. We aimed to test these models in a set of 1062 low-risk and favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancer (PCa) patients diagnosed by multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MRI-targeted biopsy. We hypothesized that the inclusion of radiological features into a novel model would improve patient selection. Performance was assessed using discrimination, calibration, and decision curve analysis (DCA). Available models were characterized by poor discrimination (areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUCs] of 59% and 60%), underestimation of predicted risk on calibration plots, and a small amount of net benefit against a probability threshold of 40-50% at the DCA. The development of a novel model slightly improved discrimination (AUC of 63% vs 59%, p = 0.001, and 63% vs 60%, p = 0.07) and net benefit against threshold probabilities of ≥30%. This first multicenter study demonstrated the poor performance of models predicting adverse pathology and that implementation of MRI and MRI-targeted biopsy in this setting was not associated with a clear improvement in patient selection. Patients harboring low-risk or favorable intermediate-risk PCa and candidates for RP cannot be referred accurately to an AS program without a non-negligible risk of misclassification. PATIENT SUMMARY: We tested prediction models that could expand the selection of prostate cancer patients for active surveillance. Models were inaccurate and associated with a high risk of misclassification despite the implementation of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging and targeted biopsies.

External Validation of Models for Prediction of Side-specific Extracapsular Extension in Prostate Cancer Patients Undergoing Radical Prostatectomy.

BACKGROUND: Predicting the risk of side-specific extracapsular extension (ECE) is essential for planning nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy (RP) in patients with prostate cancer (PCa). OBJECTIVE: To externally validate available models for prediction of ECE. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Sixteen models were assessed in a cohort of 737 consecutive PCa patients diagnosed via multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-targeted and systematic biopsies and treated with RP between January 2016 and November 2021 at eight referral centers. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Model performance was evaluated in terms of discrimination using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration plots, and decision curve analysis (DCA). RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: Overall, ECE was identified in 308/1474 (21%) prostatic lobes. Prostatic lobes with ECE had higher side-specific clinical stage on digital rectal examination and MRI, number of positive biopsy cores, and International Society of Urological Pathology grade group in comparison to those without ECE (all p < 0.0001). Less optimistic performance was observed in comparison to previous published studies, although the models described by Pak, Patel, Martini, and Soeterik achieved the highest accuracy (AUC ranging from 0.73 to 0.77), adequate calibration for a probability threshold <40%, and the highest net benefit for a probability threshold >8% on DCA. Inclusion of MRI-targeted biopsy data and MRI information in models improved patient selection and clinical usefulness. Using model-derived cutoffs suggested by their authors, approximately 15% of positive surgical margins could have been avoided. Some available models were not included because of missing data, which constitutes a limitation of the study. CONCLUSIONS: We report an external validation of models predicting ECE and identified the four with the best performance. These models should be applied for preoperative planning and patient counseling. PATIENT SUMMARY: We validated several tools for predicting extension of prostate cancer outside the prostate gland. These tools can improve patient selection for surgery that spares nerves affecting recovery of sexual potency after removal of the prostate. They could potentially reduce the risk of finding cancer cells at the edge of specimens taken for pathology, a finding that suggests that not all of the cancer has been removed.

MRI/US fusion prostate biopsy in men on active surveillance: Our experience.

AIM: The upgrading or staging in men with prostate cancer (PCA) undergoing active surveillance (AS), defined as Gleason score (GS) ≥ 3+4 or more than 2 area with cancer, was investigated in our experience using the software-based fusion biopsy (FB). METHODS: We selected from our database, composed of 620 biopsies, only men on AS according to criteria of John Hopkins Protocol (T1c, < 3 positive cores, GS = 3+3 = 6). Monitoring consisted of PSA measurement every 3 months, a clinical examination every 6 months, confirmatory FB within 6 months and then annual FB in all men. The suspicious MRI lesions were scored according to the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) classification version 2. FB were performed with a transrectal elastic free-hand fusion platform. The overall and clinically significant cancer detection rate was reported. Secondary, the diagnostic role of systematic biopsies was evaluated. RESULTS: We selected 56 patients on AS with mean age 67.4 years, mean PSA 6.7 ng/ml and at least one follow-up MRI-US fusion biopsy (10 had 2 or 3 follow-up biopsies). Lesions detected by MRI were: PIRADS-2 in 5, PIRADS-3 in 28, PIRADS-4 in 18 pts and PIRADS-5 in 5 patients. In each MRI lesion, FB with 2.1 ± 1.1 cores were taken with a mean total cores of 13 ± 2.4 including the systematic cores. The overall cancer detection rate was 71% (40/56): 62% (25/40) in target core and 28% (15/40) in systematic core. The overall significant cancer detection rate was 46% (26/56): 69% (18/26) in target vs 31% (8/26) in random cores. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of clinical significant cancer was 46% in men starting active surveillance, but it was more than doubled using MRI/US Target Biopsy 69% (18/26) rather than random cores (31%, 8/26). However, 1/3 of disease upgrades would have been missed if only the targeted biopsies were performed. Based on our experience, MRI/US fusion target biopsy must be associated to systematic biopsies to improve detection of significant cancer, reducing the risks of misclassification.

Detection limits of significant prostate cancer using multiparametric MR and digital rectal examination in men with low serum PSA: Up-date of the Italian Society of Integrated Diagnostic in Urology.

Reasons why significant prostate cancer is still missed in early stage were investigated at the 22nd National SIEUN (Italian Society of integrated diagnostic in Urology, Andrology, Nephrology) congress took place from 30th November to 1st December 2020, in virtual modality. Even if multiparametric magnetic resonance (MR) has been introduced in the clinical practice several, limitations are emerging in patient with regular digital rectal examination (DRE) and serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels approaching the normal limits. The present paper summarizes highlights observed in those cases where significant prostate cancer may be missed by PSA or imaging and DRE. The issue of multidisciplinary interest had been subdivided and deepened under four main topics: biochemical, clinical, pathological and radiological point of view with a focus on PI-RADS 3 lesions.

Accuracy of elastic fusion biopsy in daily practice: Results of a multicenter study of 2115 patients.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the accuracy of Koelis fusion biopsy for the detection of prostate cancer and clinically significant prostate cancer in the everyday practice. METHODS: We retrospectively enrolled 2115 patients from 15 institutions in four European countries undergoing transrectal Koelis fusion biopsy from 2010 to 2017. A variable number of target (usually 2-4) and random cores (usually 10-14) were carried out, depending on the clinical case and institution habits. The overall and clinically significant prostate cancer detection rates were assessed, evaluating the diagnostic role of additional random biopsies. The cancer detection rate was correlated to multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging features and clinical variables. RESULTS: The mean number of targeted and random cores taken were 3.9 (standard deviation 2.1) and 10.5 (standard deviation 5.0), respectively. The cancer detection rate of Koelis biopsies was 58% for all cancers and 43% for clinically significant prostate cancer. The performance of additional, random cores improved the cancer detection rate of 13% for all cancers (P < 0.001) and 9% for clinically significant prostate cancer (P < 0.001). Prostate cancer was detected in 31%, 66% and 89% of patients with lesions scored as Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System 3, 4 and 5, respectively. Clinical stage and Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score were predictors of prostate cancer detection in multivariate analyses. Prostate-specific antigen was associated with prostate cancer detection only for clinically significant prostate cancer. CONCLUSIONS: Koelis fusion biopsy offers a good cancer detection rate, which is increased in patients with a high Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score and clinical stage. The performance of additional, random cores seems unavoidable for correct sampling. In our experience, the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score and clinical stage are predictors of prostate cancer and clinically significant prostate cancer detection; prostate-specific antigen is associated only with clinically significant prostate cancer detection, and a higher number of biopsy cores are not associated with a higher cancer detection rate.

Blue light cystoscopy with hexylaminolevulinate: Our 7 years experience.

AIM: The objective of the present study is to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of hexylaminolevulinate (HAL) blue light cystoscopy compared with standard white light cystoscopy (WLC) in daily practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An observational, comparative, controlled (within patient) study was carried out at our Center. 61 consecutive patients with suspected or confirmed bladder cancer were recruited for the study from January 2008 until January 2015. Patients with suspected bladder cancer (positive cytology with negative WLC) or history of previous high-grade NMIBC or CIS were included in the study. Biopsies/resection of each positive lesion/suspicious areas were always taken after the bladder was inspected under WLC and BLC. Diagnoses of bladder tumor or CIS were considered as positive results, and the presence of normal urothelium in the biopsy specimen as negative result. RESULTS: 61 BLC were performed. 15/61 (24.5%) with suspected initial diagnosis of NMIBC and 46/61 (75.5%) with a history of high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). We performed a total of 173 biopsies/TURBT of suspicious areas: 129 positive only to the BLC and 44 both positive to WLC and BLC. 84/173 biopsies/TURBT were positive for cancer. All 84 NMIBC were positive to the BLC, while 35/84 were positive to the WLC with a sensitivity of BLC and WLC respectively of 100% and 41.7%. Sensitivity of WLC for highgrade NMIBC and CIS was 34.1% and 39% respectively while sensitivity of BLC for high-grade NMIBC and CIS was 100%. The specificity of the WLC was 79.9% compared to 48.5% of the BLC. The positive predictive value of BLC and WLC were respectively 48% (95% CI: 0.447-0.523) and 79% (95% CI: 0.856-0.734). CONCLUSIONS: Our data confirm those reported in the literature: BLC increases the detection rate of NMIBC particularly in high risk patients (history of CIS or high grade). BLC is a powerful diagnostic tool in the diagnosis of bladder cancer if malignancy is suspected (positive urine cytology) and if conventional WLC is negative.

Non-muscle invasive high grade urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. Which factors can influence understaging at the time of radical cystectomy?

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the main factors which influence understaging in patients with T1G3 non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 109 patients with T1/G3 underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) and then radical cystectomy (RC) with pelvic lymph nodes dissection. A number of variables were considered when evaluating the detection of understaging. We considered the patients age and gender, as well as the size, number, location and morphology of their tumor. We also considered coexistence of bladder carcinoma in situ (CIS), microscopic vascular invasion and deep lamina propria invasion. The level of experience of the surgeon was also analyzed. RESULTS: in RC samples muscle invasion, that is understaging, was detected in 74 (67.9%) patients, while 35 (32.1%) patients were appropriately staged. In these cohort of patients with high grade tumors, understaging was associated with deep lamina propria and microscopic vascular invasion, multiple tumors, tumor size > 6 cm, tumor location (trigone and dome), presence of residual tumor; age, gender, tumor morphology, CIS associated, and experience of urological surgeon were not associated with clinical understaging. CONCLUSIONS: in our study, evaluating patients with high grade NMIBC at first TURBT, we identified some risk factors that need to be considered and that are able to increase the risk of understaging: deep lamina propria and microscopic vascular invasion, multiple tumors, tumor size > 6 cm, tumor location (trigone and dome), presence of residual tumor. When these risk factors are present, performing an early cystectomy, and not a re-TURBT, could lower the risk of worse pathological finding due to rapid disease progression of the high grade tumors, and can prolong survival.

MRI/US fusion prostate biopsy: Our initial experience.

AIM: The objective of this study is to present our initial experience with magnetic resonance imaging/ultrasound (MRI/US) fusion biopsy using the Koelis Trinity device after the first consecutive 59 patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 59 consecutive patients with suspected prostate cancer (PCA) underwent prostate biopsy using Trinity Koelis® (Koelis, Grenoble, France). We divided the patients into 2 groups: patients with a previous negative mapping underwent to a MRI/US fusion re-biopsy (Group A); and biopsy-naïve patients who underwent to a first stereotactic 3-D mapping of the prostate (Group B). Group A (22 patients):mean age 64 years (CI 48-73), mean PSA = 7.7 ng/ml (CI 4.2- 9.9); mean prostate volume 55 ml(CI 45-82), Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) positive in 2/22, number of lesions detected by MRI 1.4, mean cores from each MRI target lesion 3 (CI 2-5), mean total cores 15 ( CI 12-19). Group B (37 patients): mean age 66 years (CI 49-77), mean PSA= 4.7 (3.2- 7.9); mean prostate volume 45 ml (33-67), DRE positive in 5/37, mean total cores 14 ( CI 10-16) Results: In Group A 10/22 patients were positive for PCA (overall detection rate of 45.5%): 6 PCA were detected by target biopsy and 4 cancer by random biopsy. Significant prostate cancer (defined as the presence of Gleason pattern 4) was detected in 4/10 patients (Significant PCA detection rate of 40%) and all significant PCA were detected by MRI target biopsy. All PCA detected by random biopsy had Gleason score 3 + 3 = 6. In Group B (biopsy naïve patients) 14/37 patients were positive for PCA (overall detection rate of 37.8%), Significant prostate cancer was detected in 5/14 patients (Significant PCA detection rate of 35,7%). No significant side effects were recorded. CONCLUSIONS: Our overall detection rate was 45.5% and 37.8% in Group A (patients with previous negative biopsy and persistent suspicion of PCA) and in Group B (biopsy naïve patients) respectively; clinical significant PCA detection rate was respectively 40% and 35.7%. These results are similar to current literature and promising for the future. We believe that using platforms of co-registered MRI/US fusion biopsy can potentially improve risk stratification and reduces understaging, undergrading and the need for repeat biopsies in biopsy naïve patients (using a stereotactic first mapping) and in patients with previous negative biopsy and persistent suspicion of PCA ( using a second MRI/US fusion biopsy).

Enterovesical fistula caused by a toothpick.

We present a case of enterovesical fistula caused by an accidental ingestion of a foreign body. A 23-year-old man presented to our hospital with pneumaturia, fecaluria, and abdominal pain but no recent possible causes of enterovesical fistula at anamnesis. Cystoscopy, cystography, and also colonoscopy were not able to detect the fistulous tract. Computer tomography (CT) revealed a fistula between bladder and bowels caused by a toothpick accidentally swallowed 2 years earlier. We tried to remove the foreign body endoscopically by cystoscopy and colonoscopy but with no success. The failure of endoscopic procedures required a surgical treatment. The patient underwent laparoscopic segmental resection of the sigmoid colon to remove the fistulous tract and the foreign body. The cystography revealed no external leakage of contrast from the bladder with complete resolution of the problem.

Plication corporoplasty for congenital penile curvature: our results with long-term follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcome of the long-term follow-up in patients who underwent corporoplasty-straightening treatment for congenital penile curvature (CPC). METHODS: Between 1989 and 2012, a total of 60 patients underwent corporoplasty-straightening surgery using penile plication for CPC. We followed up on all the correction of the curvature; (a) any penile shortening; (b) sexual function; (c) complications. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was of 98 months. Complete correction of the curvature was obtained in 54 patients (90 %). Shortening of the penis (1.5 to not more than 3 cm) occurred in 16 patients (26.6 %). All patients had good erectile function (IIEF-5 > 21). The most frequent complication was the sensitivity reduction of the glans in five patients (8.3 %), which was resolved with in about a year after surgery (mean 11 months) and the shortening of the penis in 16 patients (26.6 %), which, however, did not result in problems during sexual intercourse. CONCLUSIONS: Corporoplasty using penile straightening plication is a safe procedure whose results are maintained even after many years after surgery. It is a procedure that can be applied to any type of curvature. Any reduction in the length of the penis, as a result of the surgery procedure, does not lead to difficulties in sexual intercourse.