Although tumor stage is the single most important prognostic factor of urothelial carcinoma, outcome of the patients with noninvasive papillary tumor is largely dependent on the pathologic grade. Accurate staging using the American Joint Committee on Cancer/International Union Against Cancer (AJCC/UICC) TNM system is essential for patient management. Recognition of diagnostic pitfalls associated with lamina propria invasion is critical for the evaluation of bladder tumor specimens. This review will discuss recent progress and controversial issues on the staging and substating of bladder carcinoma. Essential elements for reporting of bladder tumor specimens will also discussed.
Keywords: urohelial tumors, TNM staging, substaging, reporting