Histopathological Profile of Urinary Bladder Lesions in Sudan: A Cross-sectional Study from 2022 to 2024

Background: Urinary bladder pathologies are highly varied, including both inflammatory and malignant conditions. Histopathological evaluation is necessary for effective treatment. Although bladder disorders are common worldwide, there is little data available from Sudan. This study aims to examine the histopathological diagnoses of urinary bladder specimens and to categorize neoplasms according to the 2016 WHO/ISUP criteria at Kosti Teaching Hospital, Sudan.
Methods: A retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional histopathology audit was performed at a single center, evaluating all urinary bladder specimens (n = 80) received from January 2022 to December 2024. Data were extracted from pathology reports and patient medical records. All specimens underwent routine histological processing and were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 23.
Results: The median age was 66.5 years. Hematuria (91.3%) was the predominant symptom. Neoplastic lesions predominate over nonneoplastic lesions (73.7% vs 26.3%). Urothelial carcinoma was the most common type of malignancy (62.5%). Of the urothelial carcinomas, 58% were low-grade, while 42% were high-grade. Muscle invasion was reported in 47.6% of high-grade types. Chronic bladder inflammation and Schistosomiasis were noted in 42.8% of the nonneoplastic conditions.
Conclusion: In Sudan, urothelial carcinoma remains the most common type of bladder cancer, reflecting global trends. Urinary Schistosomiasis and chronic cystitis also contribute significantly. Consequently, regular surveillance, increased awareness, and provision of high-quality healthcare are essential to achieve optimal patient outcomes.