PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which type of carcinoma is the most prevalent among urologic malignancies?

1. Transitional cell carcinoma

2. Renal adenocarcinoma

3. Squamous cell carcinoma

4. Prostatic adenocarcinoma

The correct answer is: Renal adenocarcinoma

The most prevalent type of carcinoma among urologic malignancies is prostatic adenocarcinoma. This malignancy notably impacts the male population, especially as they age. Prostate cancer is frequently diagnosed due to the widespread use of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening, which has led to increased detection rates. Prostatic adenocarcinoma is characterized by changes in the prostate gland's cellular architecture and is generally associated with slower disease progression compared to many other cancers. Understanding the epidemiology of urological cancers highlights the importance of screening and early detection efforts designed to improve patient outcomes. While transitional cell carcinoma and renal adenocarcinoma are also significant urologic malignancies, they occur with less frequency compared to prostatic adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma is less common in urologic regions and is typically associated with specific risk factors such as chronic irritation or infection. Therefore, prostatic adenocarcinoma stands out as the leading urologic malignancy in prevalence.