Applications of radiomics in genitourinary tumors

Genitourinary tumors are heterogeneous groups of tumors with high morbidity and mortality rates. Confronted with existing problems in the management of genitourinary tumors, a personalized imaging method called radiomics shows great potential in areas including detection, grading, and treatment response assessment. Radiomics is characterized by extraction of quantitative imaging features which are not visible to the naked eye from conventional imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT), followed by data analysis and model building. It outperforms other invasive methods in terms of non-invasiveness, low cost and high efficiency. Recently, a number of studies have evaluated the application of radiomics in patients with genitourinary tumors with promising data. The combination of radiomics and clinical/laboratory factors provides added value in many studies. Despite this, there are limitations and challenges to be overcome before a more extensive clinical application in the future. In this article, we will introduce the concept, significance and workflow of radiomics, review their current applications in patients with genitourinary tumors and discuss limitations and future directions of radiomics. It would help multidisciplinary team involved in the treatment of patients with genitourinary tumors to achieve a better understanding of the results of radiomics study toward a personalized medicine.