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Advanced Technical IVT

urothelial CIS

Also written as: CIS — carcinoma in situ

Carcinoma in situ of the bladder, a high-grade flat urothelial lesion with significant malignant potential.

Full Definition

Urothelial carcinoma in situ (CIS) is a high-grade, flat, non-invasive malignancy of the bladder lining that represents one of the most aggressive forms of superficial bladder cancer. Unlike papillary tumors that grow outward into the bladder lumen, CIS grows flat along the bladder surface, making it potentially difficult to detect during cystoscopy. CIS is associated with a high risk of progression to muscle-invasive disease if left untreated, with progression rates of 50-80%. The condition may present as primary CIS (isolated), secondary CIS (associated with papillary tumors), or concurrent CIS. Treatment typically involves intravesical immunotherapy or chemotherapy, with close surveillance due to high recurrence and progression risks.

Usage

Usage note: Always specify 'urothelial' to distinguish from CIS in other organs.

In Context

  • "Random biopsies confirmed multifocal urothelial CIS throughout the bladder." — Pathology report
  • "The presence of concurrent urothelial CIS significantly increased the risk stratification." — Treatment planning document

Also known as

carcinoma in situ of bladder flat high-grade lesion

Contrasted with

invasive urothelial carcinoma low-grade papillary tumor

Don't confuse with

high-grade Ta lesion dysplasia

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