Imaging Bladder Cancer

Imaging plays an important role in the management of bladder cancer (BCa). Cystoscopy, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the commonly used imaging modalities. Introduction of positron emission tomography (PET), a molecular imaging modality, with CT or MRI offers precise anatomical reference. Certain molecules labeled with radiotracers such as Fluorine-18 and Carbon-11 have been evaluated for their potential applicability in PET imaging. However, urinary excretion of Fluorine-18 and the very short half-life of Carbon-11 restrict their use. Copper-64 labeled peptide TP3805 (64Cu-TP3805) targeted to BCa cell-specific receptors demonstrated promising results in detecting BCa and its metastasis by PET imaging. A description of all these imaging modalities and their recent advances, together with their potential advantages and limitations, are presented.