Imaging of urothelial cancers: what the urologist needs to know

Imaging is vital in the diagnosis, staging, and surveillance of urothelial carcinomas. In this review, we discuss what treating urologists need to know from radiologists to optimally identify disease, plan surgery, determine prognosis, and identify patients in need of multimodal or alternative treatment strategies. We identify key points that a radiologist should convey to the treating urologist, in writing, in order to be an active partner in the formulation of an effective course of care.

Because imaging plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, staging, and surveillance of patients with tumors of the urinary tract, it is imperative that radiologists provide information about the anatomic features related to the primary tumor, the surrounding anatomy, and involvement or lack of involvement of known potential landing sites for metastases. A good understanding of the imaging features that affect management of the disease and a good relationship between the radiologist and the urologist are vital to the care of patients with urothelial cancers.