Transurethral resection of bladder tumour grossing

This article deals with transurethral resection of bladder tumour grossing, also TURBT grossing and TUR specimens.

Introduction

TURBT specimens are common urologic pathology specimens.

Specimen opening

• Not applicable.

Protocol

Specimen:

• Weight ___ grams.
• Dimensions (in aggregate): ___ x ___ x ___ cm.
• Number of fragments: [1-6 / multiple (>6)].
• Appearance: [tan-gray / yellow / orange].
• Consistency: [rubbery / firm].
• Other: [none / hemorrhagic appearance / necrotic appearing].

[Submitted in total/Representative sections submitted] in block(s) ___.

Notes:

• Recommendations vary on what to do with large TUR specimens.

Protocol notes

• The European Association of Urology recommends submitting separately the exophytic part of the tumour and tumour base in separate containers.

Staging

• Not done at time of gross.

Alternate approaches

Mazzuccheli et al. suggests:

• EIT for TUR specimens up to 10 grams.
• If tumour can be identified at gross: submit 1 block per cm of tumour + some additional tumour if >10 blocks.

University of Chicago suggest:

• Submit in total.

See also

• Urothelial carcinoma.

Related protocols

• Partial cystectomy.
• Radical cystectomy.