Descripción de la situación epidemiológica del cáncer vesical en Chile durante los años 2016 - 2022 / Description of the epidemiological situation of bladder cancer in Chile during the years 2016 - 2022

Introducción: El cáncer vesical es una neoplasia maligna común en hombres mayores de 55 años, que se ve propiciada principalmente por el tabaquismo y exposición ambiental ocupacional. Corresponde a la octava causa de muerte por cáncer a nivel mundial y es la decimocuarta causa de muerte en Chile, estando incluído en las Garantías Explícitas en Salud. Dado lo anterior, esta investigación busca recopilar datos y contribuir al conocimiento médico y la salud pública. Metodología: Estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo sobre defunciones por tumor maligno de la vejiga urinaria en Chile (a nivel nacional-regional). Datos analizados del DEIS entre 2016-2022. No se requirió consentimiento informado ni revisión ética. Uso de Microsoft Excel para el análisis. Resultados: Durante el periodo estudiado, las defunciones por tumor maligno de la vejiga urinaria en Chile mostraron un aumento en 2018 y una disminución a partir de 2019. La relación entre hombres y mujeres fue de aproximadamente 2:1. Las tasas de mortalidad por región disminuyeron en general, con aumentos en 2022 en regiones como Del Libertador B. O'higgins, Ñuble y Biobío. La región de Antofagasta tuvo la tasa más alta durante todo el periodo. El tipo de tumor más común fue el no especificado, con tasas variables a lo largo del tiempo. Discusión: Este trabajo destaca la importancia de fortalecer las medidas preventivas y terapéuticas del cáncer de vejiga en Chile, en que el tabaquismo y la contaminación minera son factores de riesgo significativos. Se ha determinado, que es común en adultos mayores predominantemente masculinos. Las tasas de mortalidad se han mantenido estáticas en los últimos años. Salvo entre los años 2020-2021, en que se registró una tendencia a la baja. Lo anterior, desprende lo importante de seguir investigando y desarrollando tratamientos efectivos, así protocolos de manejo y prevención.

Introduction: Bladder cancer is a common malignancy in men over 55 years of age, which is mainly caused by smoking and environmental occupation. It corresponds to the eighth cause of death from cancer worldwide and is the fourteenth cause of death in Chile, being included in the Explicit Health Guarantees. Given the above, this research seeks to collect data and contribute to medical knowledge and public health. Methodology: Retrospective descriptive observational study on deaths from malignant tumors of the urinary bladder in Chile (at the national-regional level). Data analyzed from the DEIS between 2016-2022. No informed consent or ethical review was required. Use of Microsoft Excel for analysis. Results: Retrospective descriptive observational study on deaths from malignant tumors of the urinary bladder in Chile (at the national-regional level). Data analyzed from the DEIS between 2016-2022. No informed consent or ethical review was required. Use of Microsoft Excel for analysis. Discussion: This work highlights the importance of strengthening preventive and therapeutic measures for bladder cancer in Chile, where smoking and mining contamination are significant risk factors. It has been determined that it is common in predominantly male older adults. Mortality rates have remained static in recent years. Except between the years 2020-2021, in which a downward trend was registered. The foregoing shows the importance of continuing to investigate and develop effective treatments, as well as management and prevention protocols.

Bladder cancer trends and mortality in the brazilian public health system

ABSTRACT Introduction Considering the lack of data on BC trends in Brazilian population, mainly as a result of the difficulty on gathering data, the present manuscript provides an overview of bladder cancer incidence, hospitalization, mortality patterns and trends using the Brazilian Data Center for The Public Health System (DATASUS). Materials and Methods All hospital admissions associated with BC diagnosis (ICD-10 C67) between 2008 and 2017 were analyzed. Distributions according to year, gender, age group, ethnicity, death, length of hospital stay, and costs were evaluated. Demographic data was obtained from the last Brazilian national census. Results From 2008 to 2017 there were 119,058 public hospital admissions related to BC. Patients were mostly white males aged 60 to 79 years-old. Mortality rates for patients who have undergone surgery was 6.75% on average, being 7.38% for women and 6.49% for men. Mortality rates were higher when open surgeries were performed compared to endoscopic procedures (4.98% vs 1.18%). Considering only endoscopic procedures, mortality rates were three times higher after urgent surgeries compared to elective ones (2.6% vs 0.6%). Over the years the cystectomy/transurethral bladder resection (C/T) ratio significantly decreased in all Brazilian Regions. In 2008, the C/T ratio was 0.19, while in 2017 it reduced to 0.08. Conclusions Despite BC relatively low incidence, it still represents a significant social economic burden in Brazil, as it presents with recurrent episodes that might require multiple hospitalizations and surgical treatment. The set of data collected might suggest that population access to health care has improved between 2008-2017.

Incidencia y mortalidad del cáncer de vejiga en Costa Rica y Panamá, 2007-2013 / Incidence and mortality of bladder cancer in Costa Rica and Panama, 2007-2013

Resumen Objetivo: Se desconoce el comportamiento epidemiológico del cáncer de vejiga en Panamá y Costa Rica; globalmente, se reporta un aumento de la incidencia de dicha patología. Este estudio tiene como propósito reportar la incidencia, mortalidad y severidad del cáncer de vejiga, durante el período comprendido entre 2007 y 2013, en ambos países. Métodos: Se realiza un análisis epidemiológico transversal en el periodo comprendido entre 2007 y 2013, contemplando los casos incidentes y fallecidos por cáncer de vejiga en Costa Rica y Panamá. La tasa de incidencia y mortalidad anual para cada uno de los países y según sexo fue estimada de acuerdo con las proyecciones anuales de población. La severidad del comportamiento de la esta neoplasia se evaluó mediante la razón de incidencia / mortalidad. Resultados: Se identifica un total de 2048 casos de cáncer de vejiga. Se evidencia un aumento de las tasas de incidencia y mortalidad en los últimos 3 años del periodo de estudio, con un compromiso mayor en el sexo masculino. La tasa de incidencia aumentó de 2007 a 2013 en un 42,3 % en Costa Rica y un 71,4 % en Panamá. En dicho periodo, la mortalidad aumentó un 25,9 % para Costa Rica y un 44,7 % para Panamá. La razón de incidencia / mortalidad se mantuvo estable para ambos países durante el periodo de estudio. Conclusión: Existe una tendencia creciente en las tasas de incidencia y mortalidad por cáncer de vejiga, en Costa Rica y Panamá.

Abstract Aim: The incidence and mortality of bladder cancer has increased in some regions of the world. However, the epidemiological profile of this neoplasia is largely unknown in Panama and Costa Rica. Therefore, the aim of this study was to report the incidence, mortality, and severity of this disease during years 2007 to 2013. Methods: An epidemiological cross-sectional study was conducted between 2007 and 2013 with all incident and mortality cases of bladder cancer in Costa Rica and Panama. The annual incidence and mortality rates for each country, and according by sex were estimated based on the annual population estimates. The incidence/mortality ratio was estimated as a measure to evaluate the severity of the pathology. Results: A total of 2048 cases of bladder cancer were included. During the last 3 years of the study period we detected an increased in incidence and mortality rates, predominately in males. The incidence rate increased from year 2007 to year 2013 in 42.3% and 71.4% in Costa Rica and Panama, respectively. During the same period the mortality rate also increased 25.9% in Costa Rica and 44.7% in Panama. The incidence/ mortality rate had a steady behavior during the study period. Conclusion: These findings confirm a growing trend in the incidence and mortality rates of bladder cancer in Costa Rica and Panama.

Decrease in skeletal muscle index one year after radical cystectomy as a prognostic indicator in patients with urothelial bladder cancer

ABSTRACT Purpose The present study aimed to determine whether sarcopenia after radical cystectomy (RC) could predict overall survival (OS) in patients with urothelial bladder cancer (UBC). Materials and Methods The lumbar skeletal muscle index (SMI) of 80 patients was measured before and 1 year after RC. The prognostic significance of sarcopenia and SMI decrease after RC were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis and a multivariable Cox regression model. Results Of 80 patients, 26 (32.5%) experienced sarcopenia before RC, whereas 40 (50.0%) experienced sarcopenia after RC. The median SMI change was -2.2 cm2/m2. Patients with sarcopenia after RC had a higher pathological T stage and tumor grade than patients without sarcopenia. Furthermore, the overall mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with sarcopenia than in those without sarcopenia 1 year after RC. The median follow-up time was 46.2 months, during which 22 patients died. Kaplan-Meier estimates showed a significant difference in OS rates based on sarcopenia (P=0.012) and SMI decrease (P=0.025). Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that SMI decrease (≥2.2 cm2/m2) was an independent predictor of OS (hazard ratio: 2.68, confidence interval: 1.007-7.719, P = 0.048). Conclusions The decrease in SMI after surgery might be a negative prognostic factor for OS in patients who underwent RC to treat UBC.

Small cell bladder cancer: should we consider prophylactic cranial irradiation?

ABSTRACT Purpose: To describe the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes in patients with small cell bladder cancer at our institution, including those who received prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) for the prevention of intracranial recurrence. Materials and Methods: Patients with small cell bladder cancer treated at a single institution between January 1990 and August 2015 were identified and analyzed retrospectively for demographics, tumor stage, treatment, and overall survival. Results: Of 44 patients diagnosed with small cell bladder cancer, 11 (25%) had metastatic disease at the time of presentation. Treatment included systemic chemotherapy (70%), radical surgery (59%), and local radiation (39%). Six patients (14%) received PCI. Median overall survival was 10 months (IQR 4 - 41). Patients with extensive disease had worse overall survival than those with organ confined disease (8 months vs. 36 months, respectively, p = 0.04). Among those who received PCI, 33% achieved 5 - year survival. Conclusion: Outcomes for patients with small cell bladder cancer remain poor. Further research is indicated to determine if PCI increases overall survival in small call bladder cancer patients, especially those with extensive disease who respond to chemotherapy.

Evaluation of incidence and histolopathological findings of soft tissue sarcomas in genitourinary tract: Uludag university experience

ABSTRACT Purpose: In this study we aimed to review urological soft tissue sarcomas of genitourinary tract that were diagnosed in our institution and their prognostic factors for survival. Materials and Methods: The clinical and pathological records of 31 patients who had diagnosis of soft tissue sarcomas primarily originating from the genitourinary tract between 2005-2011 were reviewed. Results: The most common site was kidney (17 cases, 54.8%), and most common diagnosis was leiomyosarcoma (11 cases, 35.4%). A total of 24 patients (77.4%) had surgical excision. The surgical margins were positive in 7 patients who presented with local recurrence after primary resection. Twelve patients developed metastatic disease. During follow-up (range 9-70 month), 26 of the 31 patients (88.9%) were alive. Significant survival differences were found according to histological type (p: 0.001), with lower survival rates for malignant fibrous histiocytoma. The tumor size, the presence of metastasis at the time of diagnosis and tumor localization were not statistically significant for overall survival. Conclusions: In our series, prostate sarcomas, paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma and malignant fibrous histiocytoma had poor prognosis, especially in patients presenting with metastatic disease.

Analysis of the association between bladder carcinoma and arsenic concentration in soil and water in southeast Brazil

ABSTRACT In approximately 50% of cases of bladder carcinoma, an associated predisposing factor can be established. The main factors are exposure to tobacco, arsenic (As) ore and aromatic compounds. Arsenic is a metalloid with a low average concentration in the earth's crust, and one of the most dangerous substances for human health. The present study aims to evaluate the incidence of hospitalization and mortality from bladder neoplasia and its possible association with As concentration in water and soil in two of the most critical regions of Brazil: the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais. We have investigated bladder cancer hospitalization and mortality in the states of Sao Paulo and Minas Gerais during 2010-2014. Water and soil samples were analyzed and As concentrations were established. Data were obtained through the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System. Correlation was made with water samples from São Paulo and with data on soil analysis from Minas Gerais. The results revealed no direct association in the distinctive municipalities. Areas with high environmental As concentration had a low bladder cancer rate, while areas with normal as levels had similar cancer rates. The quantitative variables did not present a normal distribution (p < 0.05). In conclusion, we did not observe a correlation between as concentration in water or soil and bladder cancer's hospitalization and mortality rates in the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais.

Prostate cancer incidentally discovered at the time of radical cystoprostatectomy does not decrease overall survival: Results from a large Chinese medical center

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate the incidence and pathologic characteristics of prostate cancer (PCa) incidentally discovered at the time of radical cystectomy and its impact on overall survival. Materials and Methods A single center retrospective study of 762 male patients who underwent radical cystoprostatectomy from Jan 1994 to Dec 2012. Results Of all included patients, 132 (17.3%) were found to have PCa. Patients with incidental PCa had a significantly higher mean age (69.2 vs. 62.2 years, P=0.015). Among the 132 patients with PCa, prostate specific antigen (PSA) analysis was available in 76 patients (57.6%), with a median value of 1.06ng/mL, and 61 (80.3%) patients had a PSA value below 4ng/mL. Four hundred and thirty-six patients (57.1%) were successfully followed, with a median duration of 46.5 months. The overall 5-year survival rate was 62.1%, and the 5-year cancer-specific survival rate was 72%. PCa recurrence was defined by two consecutive PSA values of >0.2 ng/mL and rising, and no PCa recurrence occurred. According to a univariate analyses, incidental PCa was not associated with cancer-specific survival (P=0.192) or overall survival (P=0.493). According to univariate analyses, the overall survival of patients with PCa was not associated with prostate cancer staging, PSA value, or Gleason score (All P values>0.05). Conclusions Prostate cancer incidentally discovered at the time of radical cystectomy does not decrease overall survival. Patients with incidental PCa were older than those without. The PSA value before operation is not helpful for predicting incidental prostate cancers.

The demographic features, clinical outcomes, prognosis and treatment options for patients with sarcomatoid carcinoma of the urinary bladder: a single centre experience

ABSTRACT Introduction Carcinosarcoma of the bladder is a very rare neoplasm. The pathogenesis of carcinosarcomas is not clearly understood and remains a subject of debate. Whilst there is some research conceptualizing the histopathological findings of bladder carcinosarcomas, the demographic features, clinical outcomes, prognosis and treatment options remain unclear. Materials and Methods We analyzed 12 consecutive cases of patients with sarcoma-toid bladder cancer who were treated surgically at a single Urology Department be-tween 1999 and 2015. Radiology, pathology and surgical reports were reviewed to determine the pathological staging at the time of cystectomy. These were directly compared with 230 patients having cystectomies for urothelial cell carcinoma. The sarcomatoid patients, were compared to patients with urothelial cell cancers. The other histological sub types, squamous cell (17), neuroendocrine (9), metastatic (7), mixed (4), adenocarcinoma (3), were not included. Results and conclusion Carcinosarcoma of the urinary bladder is often described in the literature as a highly malignant neoplasm that is rapidly lethal. We found that the sarcoma does not offer a worse prognosis than conventional high-grade urothelial car-cinoma. There is no significant difference in grade, stage, positive surgical margin rate, nodal involvement, associated prostate cancer or incidence rates of progression, all cause or disease specific mortality. There was a barely significant difference in carcinoma in-situ. However, carcinosarcomas are three times the volume of urothelial cell tumors which may contribute to its reputation as an aggressive tumour (44cc v 14cc). Sarcomatous elements do not appear, from our small study, to bestow a worse prognosis.

Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, a biomarker in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer: a single-institutional longitudinal study

ABSTRACT Background: Bladder cancer represents one of the most important clinical challenges in urologic practice. In this context, inflammation has an important role in the development and progression of many malignancies. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prognostic value of pre-treatment Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) on the risk of recurrence and progression in patients with primary non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Materials and Methods: Data obtained from 178 bladder cancer patients who underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURB) between July 2008 and December 2014 were evaluated prospectively. NLR was obtained from each patient before TURB and defined as the absolute neutrophil count divided by the absolute lymphocyte count. Cox proportional hazards regression model was performed to calculate disease recurrence and progression including NLR. Results: During the follow-up study (median: 53 months), 14 (23.3%) and 44 (37.9%) (p=0.04) patients respectively with NLR<3 and ≥3experienced recurrence and 2 (3.3%) and 14 (11.9%) experienced progression (p=0.06), respectively. At the multivariate Cox regression analysis, NLR ≥3 was associated with worse disease recurrence (HR: 2.84; p<0.01). No association was found regarding disease progression. The 5-year recurrence free survival was 49% and 62% in patients with NLR≥3 and <3 (p<0.01). The 5-year progression free survival was 77% and 93% in patients with NLR≥3 and <3 (p=0.69). Conclusion: NLR predicts disease recurrence but not disease progression in NMIBC patients. NLR alterations may depend of tumor inflammatory microenvironment.

Prognostic Factors for Recurrence and Progression in Korean Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Patients: A Retrospective, Multi-Institutional Study

PURPOSE: To identify the prognostic factors related to tumor recurrence and progression in Korean patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected and analyzed for 2412 NMIBC patients from 15 centers who were initially diagnosed after transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) from January 2006 to December 2010. Using univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, the prognostic value of each variable was evaluated for the time to first recurrence and progression. RESULTS: With a median follow-up duration of 37 months, 866 patients (35.9%) experienced recurrence, and 137 (5.7%) experienced progression. Patients with recurrence had a median time to the first recurrence of 10 months. Multivariable analysis conducted in all patients revealed that preoperative positive urine cytology (PUC) was independently associated with worse recurrence-free survival [RFS; hazard ratio (HR) 1.56; p<0.001], and progression-free survival (PFS; HR 1.56; p=0.037). In particular, on multivariable analysis conducted for the high-risk group (T1 tumor/high-grade Ta tumor/carcinoma in situ), preoperative PUC was an independent predictor of worse RFS (HR 1.73; p<0.001) and PFS (HR 1.96; p=0.006). On multivariable analysis in patients with T1 high-grade (T1HG) cancer (n=684), better RFS (HR 0.75; p=0.033) and PFS (HR 0.33; p<0.001) were observed in association with the administration of intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) induction therapy. CONCLUSION: A preoperative PUC result may adversely affect RFS and PFS, particularly in high-risk NMIBC patients. Of particular note, intravesical BCG induction therapy should be administered as an adjunct to TURBT in order to improve RFS and PFS in patients with T1HG cancer.

The prognostic impact of perioperative blood transfusion on survival in patients with bladder urothelial carcinoma treated with radical cystectomy

PURPOSE: The aim of our study was to assess the influence of perioperative blood transfusion (PBT) on survival outcomes following radical cystectomy (RC) and pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed and analyzed the clinical data of 432 patients who underwent RC for bladder cancer from 1991 to 2012. PBT was defined as the transfusion of allogeneic red blood cells during RC or postoperative hospitalization. RESULTS: Of all patients, 315 patients (72.9%) received PBT. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, female gender (p=0.015), a lower preoperative hemoglobin level (p=0.003), estimated blood loss>800 mL (p4 packed red blood cell units was an independent predictor of overall survival (p=0.007), but not in cancer specific survival. CONCLUSIONS: Our study was not conclusive to detect a clear association between PBT and survival after RC. However, the efforts should be made to continue limiting the overuse of transfusion especially in patients who are expected to have a high probability of PBT, such as females and those with a low preoperative hemoglobin level and history of neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Cistectomía radical por cáncer vesical en un hospital docente-asistencial: análisis de resultados perioperatorios / Radical cystectomy for bladder cancer in a state teaching hospital: analysis of perioperative outcomes

Introduction: A number of patients have been studied after undergoing Radical Cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer, to review prognostic factors and analyze perioperative outcomes. A contemporary benchmark was established for future comparisons. Material and Methods: Retrospective study of 46 patients that underwent RC for bladder cancer between July 2003 and September 2012, assessing demographic characteristics, comorbidities, anesthetic risk and clinical status, interval between transurethral resection (TUR) and cystectomy, operative times, bleeding and transfusions, surgical technique, nutritional management, pathologic findings, hospital stay and complications. Complications were detailed by type and frequency and classified as early (within 30 days) or late. In addition, we used the Clavien-Dindo classification for reporting postoperative complications. Mortality rates at 30, 60 and 90 days after cystectomy were estimated. Results: Average patient age was 70 years (49-88) and mean ASA classification was 2.7. The average between TUR and cystectomy was 68.2 days (median = 57.5 days). Mean operative time for cutaneous ureterostomy was 194 minutes, 320 for ileal conduit and 342 for neobladder. 60.8 percent had pathological stage major than pT2 and 41 percent had nodal involvement. There were 19.5 percent of positive margins. The 23.9 percent had Clavien-Dindo postoperative complications grade 3 or 4. The 90-day global mortality was 17.3 percent. Conclusions: CR was associated with a high morbidity and mortality, which seems to be explained by an advanced stage of the disease and the high presence of poor prognostic factors.

Objetivos: Estudiamos una serie de pacientes sometidos a cistectomía radical (CR) por cáncer vesical para examinar factores pronósticos y analizar los resultados perioperatorios, estableciendo así un punto de referencia para futuras evaluaciones. Material y Método: Estudio retrospectivo de 46 pacientes sometidos a CR por cáncer vesical entre julio de 2003 y septiembre de 2012, evaluando características demográficas, comorbilidades, riesgo anestésico y condición clínica, lapso entre la resección transuretral (RTU) y la cistectomía, tiempos operatorios, sangrado y transfusiones, técnica quirúrgica utilizada, manejo nutricional, resultados anatomopatológicos, estada hospitalaria y complicaciones. Estas últimas fueron detalladas según tipo y frecuencia y catalogadas como precoces (durante los primeros 30 días) o tardías. Además, se utilizó la clasificación de Clavien-Dindo para reportar las complicaciones postoperatorias. Se estimaron las tasas de mortalidad a 30, 60 y 90 días post cistectomía. Resultados: El promedio de edad fue 70 años (49-88) y la media de la clasificación ASA fue 2,7. El promedio entre la RTU y la cistectomía fue 68,2 días. Los tiempos operatorios promedio fueron de 194 min la ureterostomía cutánea, 320 el conducto ileal y 342 la neovejiga. Un 60,8 por ciento tenía un pT > 2 y un 41 por ciento compromiso ganglionar. Hubo 19,5 por ciento de márgenes positivos. Un 23,9 por ciento tuvo complicaciones grado 3 ó 4 según Clavien-Dindo. La mortalidad global a 90 días fue 17,3 por ciento. Conclusiones: la CR se asoció a una elevada morbimortalidad, lo que parece explicarse por un estado avanzado de la enfermedad y por la alta presencia de factores de mal pronóstico.

Prognostic significance of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition markers e-cadherin, vimentin and twist in bladder cancer

ObjectiveThe goal of this study was to utilize long-term patient follow-up to determine whether epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related markers can predict bladder cancer patient survival and progression of disease.Materials and MethodsThis study included 121 patients with bladder cancer. Sixty-four of these patients presented with non-muscle invasive (NMI, stage T1) bladder cancer and 57 with muscle invasive (MI, stage T2, T3). The patients were diagnosed and treated between May 1998 and July 2012. The EMT markers E-cadherin, Twist, and Vimentin were detected via immunohistochemistry. Univariate and multivariate/Cox analyses were then utilized to determine whether these EMT markers could be useful prognostic markers for predicting bladder cancer patient outcomes.ResultsAnalysis of the 121 bladder cancer patients in this study revealed that the frequency of E-cadherin expression was 59.5% (72/121), Twist was 54.5% (66/121), and Vimentin was 24.8% (30/121). Twist and Vimentin were found to have statistically significant correlations with grade, recurrence, and progression but not with stage, whereas E-cadherin was associated with stage but not with the other parameters. In the univariate analysis, grade (p = 0.02) was the only significant predictor for progression-free survival (PFS). Stage, grade, and expression of E-cadherin, Vimentin and Twist were included in the multivariate analysis of predicting PFS. In this analysis, grade (p = 0.01) and Vimentin expression (p = 0.001) were found to be significant prognostic factors in predicting PFS.ConclusionsGrade and Vimentin are potential independent indicators in predicting bladder cancer progression and survival.

Análisis de supervivencia en pacientes sometidos a cistectomía radical por cáncer vesical en un Hospital docente-asistencial / Analysis of survival in patients undergoing radical cystectomy forbladder cancer in a teaching Hospital

Examinar factores pronósticos y analizar la supervivencia en pacientes sometidos a cistectomía radical (CR) por cáncer vesical. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: estudio de cohortes retrospectivo de 46 pacientes sometidos a CR por cáncer vesical entre julio de 2003 y septiembre de 2012, considerándose como variable dependiente la supervivencia y como variables independientes: las características demográficas, comorbilidades, riesgo anestésico, condición clínica, lapso entre la RTU y la cistectomía, derivación urinaria utilizada, resultados anatomopatológicos y complicaciones postoperatorias. Se analizó la supervivencia mediante Kaplan-Meier, elaborando curvas que fueron comparadas mediante el método de Mantel-Cox. Se efectuó un análisis de supervivencia a 2 años de la cistectomía, mediante regresión logística binaria multivariante. RESULTADOS: La media de la supervivencia global fue 31,8 meses (mediana = 12 meses) y la de la específica 38,2 meses (mediana = 16). La supervivencia global fue mayor en enfermos menores de 70 años, con función renal o albuminemia normales, ASA <3 y en quienes se elaboró una neovejiga. La supervivencia específica fue mayor en los pacientes con estadio tumoral (pT) <3, densidad ganglionar <20 por ciento, margen quirúrgico negativo, sin compromiso ganglionar o masa residual (R0) y en los sometidos a linfadenectomía. Los factores de riesgo para fallecer dentro de los primeros 2 años fueron edad sobre 69 años, ASA >2, pT >2 (OR 25), compromiso ganglionar, metástasis a distancia, masa residual y margen positivo. CONCLUSION: La infiltración local, la afectación ganglionar y una edad mayor a 69 años fueron los tres factores de riesgo más determinantes de un peor pronóstico.

To review prognostic factors and analyze the survival of patients treated with radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of 46 patients underwent RC for bladder cancer between July 2003 and September 2012 was carried out, considering survival as the dependent variable and as independent variables the following: demographic characteristics, comorbidities, anesthetic risk, clinical condition, delay between transurethral resection (TUR) and cystectomy, urinary diversion performed, pathologic findings, and postoperative complications. A survival analysis using the Kaplan-Meier method was performed; as a result curves were obtained and compared using the Mantel-Cox test. A multivariate binary logistic regression was performed, and prognostic factors of survival at 2 years of cystectomy were evaluated. RESULTS: The median overall survival was 31.8 months (median 12 months) and specific overall survival was 38.2 months (median = 16). Overall survival was higher in patients younger than 70 years, with normal renal function and normal albumin, ASA minor than 3 and in those that a neobladder was developed. Specific survival was higher in patients with tumor stage (pT) <3, node density <20 percent, negative surgical margins, without lymph node involvement or residual mass (R0) and in those underwent to lymphadenectomy. Risk factors for death within the first 2 years were: age over 69 years, ASA> 2, pT> 2 (OR 25), nodal involvement, distant metastases, residual mass and positive margins. CONCLUSIONS: Local infiltration, lymph node involvement and age over 69 years were the three most crucial risk factors for a worse prognosis.

Comparison of Radical Cystectomy with Conservative Treatment in Geriatric ( 80) Patients with Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer

Introduction The aim of this study was to compare overall survival in elderly patients (≥ 80 years) with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) undergoing either radical cystectomy (RC) or conservative treatment. Material and Methods We performed a retrospective, comparative analysis of overall- and cancer-specific survival in octagenarians with MIBC (≥ pT2) submitted to RC or conservative treatment. Uni- and multivariable Cox regression analysis were performed to assess predictors of overall survival. Cumulative hospital stay was also analyzed for all patients. Results The RC-group consisted of 33 patients with a mean age of 82.3 years (IQR 80.4-85.4 years) and the bladder preservation a cohort of 35 patients aged 83.8 years (IQR 81.8-88.2 years). No difference was detectable for overall survival (15.9 months versus 9.5 months; p = 0.18) and cancer-specific survival (23.5 months versus 19.5 months p = 0.71) or 90-day mortality (6.1% versus 14.3%; p = 0.43) between the two groups. Patients who received conservative treatment had a shorter cumulative length of hospital stay (p = 0.001). Age at the time of transurethral resection of the bladder (TUR-B) was an independent predictor of the overall survival (p = 0.004). Conclusions In this retrospective study, no clear survival benefit was observed for patients ≥ 80 years submitted either to radical cystectomy or conservative treatment. There was however a trend favoring radical cystectomy but this did not approach statistical significance. Octagenarians that underwent RC however spent more of their remaining lifetime in the hospital than those treated conservatively. .

Cistectomía radical laparoscópica: técnica y resultados en 100 pacientes consecutivos / Radical laparoscopic cystectomy: experience in 100 patients

Background: Laparoscopic cystectomy is a less invasive alternative than traditional surgery. Aim: To report our experience with laparoscopic radical cystectomy, the technique, results and complications. Material and Methods: During a 10-year period, 100 consecutive laparoscopic cystectomies for bladder cancer were carried out. The procedures performed were 57 radical cystoprostatectomies, 27 pelvic exenterations, 14 cystectomies with prostate preservation and seven radical cystectomies. An extracorporeal urinary diversion was performed in 92 percent of cases. Results: The age of patients ranged from 29 to 83 years and the male/female ratio was 3:1. As urinary diversion, an orthotopic reservoir was used in 49 patients, and ileal conduit in 32, Indiana continent reservoir in 10 and intracorporeal Sigma-rectum pouch (Mainz pouch II) in 9 patients. All Mainz II pouches were constructed laparoscopically. Mean operative time and blood loss were 279 minutes (range 180 to 375) and 436 ml (range 50 to 1.500) respectively. Eight patients (11 percent) had perioperative complications: five had vascular lesions, two had eviscerations and two had septicemia. Delayed complications were observed in seven cases (9 percent). Three patients had a urinary sepsis, one had a ureteral stenosis, two had spontaneous ruptures of a continent reservoir and one had an intestinal fistula. Mean hospital stay was 8.8 days (range de 4 to 28). One patient died due to an intestinal fistula and secondary peritonitis. Mean follow-up was 18 months (range 2 to 68 months). Ten patients (13 percent) had disease progression and died in long-term follow up. Conclusions: Laparoscopic radical cystectomy is associated with a reduced operative bleeding, a short hospital stay and acceptable morbidity.

Objetivo: Presentar nuestra serie de cistectomía radical laparoscópica, su técnica, resultados y complicaciones. Material y Métodos: En un período de 10 años, se efectuaron un total de 100 cistectomías lapa-roscópicas en forma consecutiva por un solo cirujano, cuya indicación fue por cáncer vesical. Se realizaron 57 cistoprostatectomías radicales, 22 exanteraciones anteriores, 14 cistectomías con preservación prostática y 7 cistectomías radicales. La derivación urinaria fue efectuada por vía extracorpórea en el 92 por ciento de los casos. Se analizan los resultados peri operatorios y a largo plazo obtenidos con esta técnica. Resultados: Los 100 procedimientos se completaron por vía laparoscópica sin conversión. La relación hombre mujer fue de 3:1. La edad promedio fue de 63 años (29-83). El índice de masa corporal promedio (IMC) fue de 28 kg/m² (20-47). La derivación urinaria empleada fue una Neovejiga ortotópica en 49 pacientes, Conducto ileal incontinente en 32, Reservorios urinario-continente tipo Indiana en 10 y Neovejiga recto-sigmoidea (Mainz II) intracorpórea en 9 pacientes. El tiempo operatorio promedio fue de 271 min (180-375) y el sangrado estimado promedio de 459 ml (50-1.500). Hubo 8 pacientes (11 porciento) con complicaciones intra o peri operatorias. Hubo 7 complicaciones tardías (9 por ciento). El tiempo promedio de hospitalización fue de 8,8 días (4-28). Hubo un fallecido. El seguimiento promedio fue de 48 meses. Diez pacientes (13 por ciento) presentaron muerte por progresión de la enfermedad. Conclusión: Los resultados a mediano plazo son prometedores, se requiere de un seguimiento más prolongado para consolidar su validez oncológica.

Cutaneous ureterostomy with definitive ureteral stent as urinary diversion option in unfit patients after radical cystectomy / Ureterostomia cutânea como opção de derivação urinária em pacientes em condições clínicas após cistectomia radical

PURPOSE: Simple diversions are underutilized, mostly for unfit, bedridden, and very self-limited patients requiring palliative surgical management due to life-threatening conditions. Experience with cutaneous ureterostomy (CU) as palliative urinary diversion option for unfit bladder cancer patients is reported. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed clinical and operative parameters of 41 patients who underwent CU following RC in three specialized Cancer Centers from July/2005 to July/2010. Muscle-invasive disease (clinical Stage T2/worse), multifocal high-grade tumor, and carcinoma in situ refractory to intravesical immunotherapy were the main indications for RC. Double-J ureteral stents were used in all patients and replaced every 6 months indefinitly. Peri-operative morbidity and mortality were evaluated. RESULTS: Median age was 69 years (interquartile range - IQR 62, 76); 30 (73%) patients were men. Surgery in urgency setting was performed in 25 (61%) of patients, most due to severe bleeding associated with hemodynamic instability; 14 patients (34%) showed an American Society of Anesthesiologists score 4. Median operative time was 180 minutes (IQR 120, 180). Peri-operative complications occurred in 30 (73%) patients, most Clavien grade I and II (66.6 %). There was no per-operative death. Re-intervention was necessary in 7 (17%) patients. Overall survival was 24% after 9.4 months follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: CU with definitive ureteral stenting represents a simplified alternative for urinary diversion after palliative cystectomy in unfit patients. It can be performed quickly, with few early and late postoperative complications allowing RC in a group of patients otherwise limited to suboptimal alternatives. Future studies regarding the quality of life are warranted.

OBJETIVO: Relatar a experiência do emprego da ureterostomia cutânea (UC) como forma de derivação urinária definitiva em pacientes portadores de neoplasia vesical avançada, em más condições clínicas e que necessitam de tratamento paliativo. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados retrospectivamente os parâmetros clínicos e operatórios de 41 pacientes submetidos a cistectomia radical e UC em três centros oncológicos especializados. A UC foi a derivação urinária escolhida quando os pacientes não apresentavam condições clínicas de serem submetidos a outro tipo de derivação . Foram avaliados a morbidade peri-operatória e a sobrevida global. RESULTADOS: A idade média dos pacientes foi de 69 anos (intervalo interquartil - IQR 62, 76); 30 (73%) pacientes eram do sexo masculino. Vinte e cinco pacientes (61%) foram submetidos a cirurgia de urgência sendo a maioria devido a hemorragia grave associada a instabilidade hemodinâmica. O tempo cirúrgico médio foi de 180 minutos (IQR 120, 180). As complicações peri-operatórias ocorreram em 30 (73%) pacientes sendo a maioria classificadas como "Clavien" graus I e II (66,6%). Não houve óbito per-operatório. A reabordagem cirúrgica foi necessária em 7 (17%) dos pacientes e a sobrevida global foi de 24% após 9,4 meses de seguimento. CONCLUSÕES: A UC com implante de "stent" ureteral é uma alternativa simples de derivação urinária, após cistectomia paliativa, em pacientes sem condições clínicas de serem submetidos a procedimentos cirúrgicos mais complexos. A UC é um procedimento rápido e apresenta taxas de complicações aceitáveis. Essa alternativa cirúrgica permite melhorar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes portadores de tumores vesicais localmente avançados.

Combination of gemcitabine and carboplatin in urothelial cancer patients unfit for cisplatin due to impaired renal or cardiac function

PURPOSE: Combination of gemcitabine and carboplatin is the accepted treatment for metastatic urothelial cancer patients unfit for cisplatin-based chemotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Gemcitabine 1000 mg/m² (days 1, 8) and carboplatin AUC-4.5 (day 1) were given every 21 days to 23 patients with creatinine clearance < 60 mL/min, cardiac ejection fraction < 45% or active ischemia. Patient characteristics included: median age 73 (56-86) years; primary site: bladder 17 (73%), upper tract 6 (27%) patients; Bajorin's prognostic groups: good 6 (26%), intermediate 11 (48%) and poor 6 (26%) patients. Data was retrospectively documented. Patients were followed until they expired. RESULTS: We obtained objective responses in 8 (34.7%) patients, (95% CI, 16.3-57.2%), including one patient with complete response. The median progression-free survival was 4 (0.2-16.5+) months and the overall survival 8.6 (0.2-45.3+) months. At time of analysis, 4 patients (17%) remained disease free; 3 of them underwent resection of residual disease. Toxicity included: infection in 9 (39%) patients; among them, one died from pneumonia; bleeding > grade 2 in 3 (13%) patients and fatigue grade 3 in 2 (9%) patients. Hematologic toxicity included grade 4 thrombocytopenia in 2 (9%) patients and grade 4 neutropenia in 3 (13%) patients. Five (22%) patients discontinued therapy due to toxicity. CONCLUSIONS: Combination of gemcitabine and carboplatin demonstrated clinical activity in patients with advanced urothelial cancer unfit for cisplatin. It was associated with considerable toxicity. Resection of residual disease is feasible in this population.