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05:19
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Assessment of Carcinogen-induced Murine Bladder Tumors
Published on: March 29, 2019
Fat within the wall of the urinary bladder: computed tomographic appearance
1NightHawk Radiology Services, Coeur d'Alene, 601 Front Ave, Suite 502, ID 83814, USA. dthickman@nighthawkrad.net
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|October 13, 2009
Summary
Intramural fat in the urinary bladder wall is a common finding on computed tomography (CT) scans, typically appearing in men on unenhanced studies. This fat is usually benign and often seen in non-distended bladders.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Urology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Fat within the urinary bladder wall is a recognized, though infrequently discussed, finding.
- Understanding its imaging characteristics is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the computed tomographic (CT) appearance of intramural fat in the urinary bladder.
- To characterize its typical features and assess its clinical significance.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 23 cases with intramural fat.
- Analysis of intravenous contrast use, patient sex, and bladder distention.
- Tabulation of intravesical fat location.
Main Results:
- Intramural fat appears as a thin, low-density band, predominantly in the anterior/superior bladder wall.
- Found in <2% of cases, more common in men (90%).
- Typically visualized on unenhanced CT studies (80%) with partially filled bladders.
Conclusions:
- Intramural fat is a normal histological finding detectable by CT.
- It is characteristically seen in non-distended urinary bladders on unenhanced scans.
- Radiologists should recognize this finding to avoid misdiagnosis.
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