Invasion of adjacent lumbar vertebral body from renal pelvis carcinoma: Associated with bone metastasis but easily overlooked on initial CT scan

Background/Aim: We hypothesized that regional tumor growth into L1 and L2 vertebral bodies from renal pelvis carcinoma was linked to the development of bone metastases. Materials and Methods: Criteria for the study were: (i) Metastatic renal pelvis carcinoma confirmed via pathology and computed tomographic (CT) scan, (ii) L1 and L2 invasion confirmed from retrospective CT scan review, and (iii) detection of bone metastases using radionuclide images/CT scans. Results: A total of 71 cases were enrolled in the study. Initial L1 and L2 vertebral body invasion. were detected in 45 (63%) patients. As well as L1 and L2 invasion, 32 (71%) had development of bone metastases. All bone lesions were osteolytic. Initial L1 and L2 invasion (p<0.00001) was associated with the development of bone metastasis. Conclusion: CT scan can help to detect L1 and L2 vertebral body invasion in patients with renal pelvis carcinoma. Early identification and optimal management of such patients is necessary.