Eosinophilic cystitis simulating invasive bladder cancer: a real diagnostic challenge

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Pathology

Background:

• Eosinophilic cystitis (EC) is a rare inflammatory bladder condition.
• EC can manifest as a bladder mass, potentially misdiagnosed as invasive bladder cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical experience with eosinophilic cystitis presenting as a bladder mass.
• To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of EC mimicking bladder cancer.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of three patients diagnosed with EC presenting as bladder masses.
• Clinical data, imaging, cystoscopy, biopsy, and treatment outcomes were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Three patients (2 female, 1 male; ages 14-43) presented with irritative bladder symptoms, suprapubic pain, hematuria, and a bladder mass.
• Biopsy confirmed EC; one patient had hydroureteronephrosis.
• All patients underwent transurethral resection and received corticosteroids, antibiotics, and antihistamines, showing marked improvement.

Conclusions:

• Eosinophilic cystitis is a rare entity that can present as a bladder mass mimicking invasive bladder cancer.
• Early detection and prompt treatment, including lesion resection and systemic therapy, are crucial for a favorable prognosis.