IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Transitional cell carcinoma of the ureter

Case contributed by Ammar Haouimi
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Right flank pain with hematuria. Ultrasound showed right hydronephrosis. CT urography was requested.

Patient Data

Age: 65 years
Gender: Male

Enhancing intraluminal soft tissue mass of the right lower ureter extending up to the vesicoureteral junction with associated ureterohydronephrosis and delayed renal excretion. Multiple interaorto-caval and para-aortic lymphadenopathies are noted. 

Normal appearance of the left kidney.

Annotated image

Annotated images showing the intraluminal density of the ureter on plain CT and excretory phase.

Case Discussion

CT urography of a soft tissue mass filling the ureteral lumen with ureterohydronephrosis and retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy. Cystoscopy with biopsy was performed that confirm the diagnosis of transitional cell carcinoma.

Transitional cell carcinoma is considered the most common primary tumor of the ureter (95%). More frequently located in the distal ureter, presumably due to greater stasis.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.