Using Imaging to Predict Treatment Response in Genitourinary Malignancies

Abstract

Context: Over the previous2 decades, there have been numerous advancements in the diagnostic evaluation, therapeutic management, and postoperative assessment of genitourinary malignancies.

Objective: To present a review of current and novel imaging modalities and their utility in the assessment of therapeutic response in the systemic management of renal, testicular, and prostate cancers.

Evidence acquisition: A PubMed/Medline search of the current published literature inclusive of prospective and retrospective original research, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses was conducted evaluating imaging modalities for renal cell carcinoma, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. All relevant literature was individually reviewed and summarized to provide a concise description of the currently available imaging modalities and their efficacy in assessing treatment response of the genitourinary malignancies targeted in this review.

Evidence synthesis: Conventional imaging techniques play a pivotal role in predicting the treatment response of genitourinary malignancies and have, therefore, been incorporated into clinical guidelines. Advancements in imaging technology have led to increased utilization for prognostication of a genitourinary cancer's response to therapy.

Conclusions: A good understanding of current recommended imaging techniques to evaluate treatment response in genitourinary malignancies is of paramount importance for today's clinician, who faces increasing treatment modalities.

Patient summary: In this review, we summarize available imaging modalities in the evaluation of treatment response in kidney, prostate, or testicular tumors. We believe that a good understanding of current imaging modalities is of paramount importance for healthcare providers treating these cancers.

Keywords: Imaging; Kidney cancer; Prostate cancer; Radiology; Testicular cancer.