[Squamous cell lesions of the urinary bladder].

Area of Science:

• Urothelial oncology
• Cancer biology
• Molecular pathology

Context:

• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and transitional cell carcinoma with squamous differentiation (SCC/TCC) are uncommon bladder cancers in Western nations.
• Chronic urothelial inflammation and irritation are recognized risk factors for SCC and SCC/TCC development.
• The distinct tumor biology of squamous cell cancers differs from transitional cell carcinoma (TCC).

Purpose:

• To analyze the available literature on the natural history, treatment, and prognosis of SCC, SCC/TCC, and metaplastic lesions.
• To discuss recent molecular cancer biology findings and their relevance to SCC carcinogenesis.
• To address the challenges in clinical management and therapy for SCC due to a lack of prospective clinical trial evidence.

Summary:

• Literature review on the natural history, treatment, and prognosis of rare bladder cancers: SCC and SCC/TCC.
• Exploration of molecular findings in squamous cell lesions, suggesting potential for improved bladder cancer subclassification.
• Highlighting the need for further research due to limited clinical trial data for SCC management.

Impact:

• Informs clinical management strategies for challenging SCC cases.
• Provides insights into the molecular underpinnings of SCC carcinogenesis.
• Suggests future directions for bladder cancer subclassification and targeted therapies.