[Multiple analysis of morphologic factors with prognostic value in transitional cell papillary carcinoma of the...

A 7-year retrospective study of 571 cases of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder (1990-1996) was made in order to demonstrate, statistically, the existence of a close relation between the tumoral staging of Jewett and the cytological grading of Mostofi (p < 0.05). From the results obtained we deduce that grades 1 and 2 are usually associated with stage A tumours, whereas grade 3 is associated with stage B. Thereafter all stage B tumours (184 cases) were selected to determine whether or not cytological grading was related to any histological parameter in order to differentiate between superficial (stage B1) and deeply invasive tumours (stage B2). According to results obtained, the existence of a close relation between grading and the way of muscular infiltration in a focal or diffuse manner could be suggested. These data will be correlated to prognosis in a subsequent clinical follow-up. Therefore, we conclude that grades 1 and 2 usually infiltrate the muscular layer of the bladder in a focal manner with better prognosis, while grade 3 tumors infiltrate in a diffuse way with a poor prognosis.