Vesicoureteric reflux in patients with bladder tumours

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Oncology

Background:

• Bladder neoplasms can be associated with urinary tract abnormalities.
• Vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder to the ureters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence and implications of VUR in patients with bladder neoplasms.
• To analyze the clinical course and management of VUR in this patient cohort.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 224 patients treated for bladder neoplasms over 18 years.
• Identification of VUR through clinical suspicion of ureterotrigonal abnormalities and diagnosis via micturating cystography.
• Documentation of VUR development before or after bladder tumor treatment.

Main Results:

• Vesicoureteric reflux was observed in 44 out of 224 patients (19.6%).
• Reflux developed after treatment in 36 patients, while 8 had pre-existing reflux associated with ureterotrigonal abnormalities.
• Complications included recurrent pyelonephritis (9 cases) and secondary struvite calculi (2 cases).
• Five patients underwent ureteric reimplantation for recurrent pyelonephritis.

Conclusions:

• Vesicoureteric reflux is a notable comorbidity in bladder neoplasm patients.
• While often benign, VUR can lead to significant renal complications like pyelonephritis and stone formation.
• Antireflux surgery may be necessary for managing recurrent infections in these patients.