Prostatic transitional cell carcinoma: pathologic features and clinical management

Prostatic involvement by transitional cell carcinoma (pTCC) in patients with bladder cancer is a frequent finding, particularly in patients with high-grade invasive tumor and urothelial carcinoma in situ. Various patterns and levels of prostatic involvement have been described, and their impact in patients' management and their prognosis recognized. The role of prostatic urethral biopsy and intraoperative frozen section in the management of bladder cancer, tailoring to the bladder tumor stage is still not well defined and universally accepted. This review discusses the current understanding of the biology and histological patterns of pTCC and their clinical significance and management options. A rational approach for management of pTCC in patients with bladder cancer will be proposed on the basis of our experience and our review of literature.