Bilal Farhan

Bio: Bilal Farhan is an academic researcher from University of California, Irvine. The author has contributed to research in topics: Urinary incontinence & Overactive bladder. The author has an hindex of 4, co-authored 16 publications receiving 85 citations. Previous affiliations of Bilal Farhan include University of Texas Medical Branch.

Squamous cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder: Systematic review of clinical characteristics and therapeutic approaches

Abstract: Objective To highlight the current understanding of the epidemiology, clinicopathological characteristics, and management of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the bladder, as it accounts for 2–5% of bladder tumours, with a focus on non-bilharzial-associated SCC (NB-SCC). The standard treatment for bladder SCC remains radical cystectomy (RC). We present an updated clinical profile of bladder SCC and a review of NB-SCC therapeutic approaches, including RC, neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatments, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

Assessment of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms where an undiagnosed neurological disease is suspected: A report from an International Continence Society consensus working group.

Abstract: Aim Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are a common urological referral, which sometimes can have a neurological basis in a patient with no formally diagnosed neurological disease ("occult neurology"). Early identification and specialist input is needed to avoid bad LUTS outcomes, and to initiate suitable neurological management. Methods The International Continence Society established a neurological working group to consider: Which neurological conditions may include LUTS as an early feature? What diagnostic evaluations should be undertaken in the LUTS clinic? A shortlist of conditions was drawn up by expert consensus and discussed at the annual congress of the International Neurourology Society. A multidisciplinary working group then generated recommendations for identifying clinical features and management. Results The relevant conditions are multiple sclerosis, multiple system atrophy, normal pressure hydrocephalus, early dementia, Parkinsonian syndromes (including early Parkinson's Disease and Multiple System Atrophy) and spinal cord disorders (including spina bifida occulta with tethered cord, and spinal stenosis). In LUTS clinics, the need is to identify additional atypical features; new onset severe LUTS (excluding infection), unusual aspects (eg, enuresis without chronic retention) or "suspicious" symptoms (eg, numbness, weakness, speech disturbance, gait disturbance, memory loss/cognitive impairment, and autonomic symptoms). Where occult neurology is suspected, healthcare professionals need to undertake early appropriate referral; central nervous system imaging booked from LUTS clinic is not recommended. Conclusions Occult neurology is an uncommon underlying cause of LUTS, but it is essential to intervene promptly if suspected, and to establish suitable management pathways.

The challenges in the diagnosis of detrusor underactivity in clinical practice: A mini-review.

Abstract: Objective To review the current definitions, terminology, epidemiology and aetiology of detrusor underactivity (DU), with specific attention to the diagnostic criteria in use. In addition, we address the relation and the overlap between DU and bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). In this mini-review, we hope to help identify DU patients and facilitate structured clinical evaluation and research.

Surgical technique for removal of tined lead for InterStim.

Abstract: Author(s): Okhunov, Zhamshid; Farhan, Bilal; Ahmed, Ahmed; Pulford, Christopher; Ghoniem, Gamal | Abstract: IntroductionWe aimed to introduce our technique describing the removal of a chronic implanted tined-lead in patients with a sacral neuromodulator implant.Materials and methodsWe performed a retrospective review of patients who had chronic sacral neuromodulator (InterStim) implanted by a single surgeon from 2001 through 2015. This simple surgical technique was developed and successfully performed to remove the leads. Primary reasons for removal were elective due to poor symptoms control and failure to maintain response or lead migration. Patient demographics, indication for implantation, as well as installation and removal complications were recorded and analyzed.ResultsTwenty-five patients were included [mean age: 60.4 years (32-86), 17 females]. Primary indications for sacral nerve stimulation were overactive bladder in 16 (64%), mixed incontinence in 6 (24%), urinary retention in 2 (8%), and interstitial cystitis 3 (12%). Mean implant duration was 24.2 (0.5-90) months. The existing tined lead was removed and replaced in 11 (44%) patients while the remaining 14 (56%) underwent complete removal of the unit without subsequent replacement. Successful lead removal without complications was achieved in 24 (96%) patients.ConclusionsThis minimally invasive technique is a simple, safe, and effective method of removing chronic implanted tined leads en bloc.

Deciphering the cells of origin of squamous cell carcinomas

Abstract: Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) are among the most prevalent human cancers. SCC comprises a wide range of tumours originated from diverse anatomical locations that share common genetic mutations and expression of squamous differentiation markers. SCCs arise from squamous and non-squamous epithelial tissues. Here, we discuss the different studies in which the cell of origin of SCCs has been uncovered by expressing oncogenes and/or deleting tumour suppressor genes in the different cell lineages that compose these epithelia. We present evidence showing that the squamous differentiation phenotype of the tumour depends on the type of mutated oncogene and the cell of origin, which dictate the competence of the cells to initiate SCC formation, as well as on the aggressiveness and invasive properties of these tumours.

Outcomes of Intravesical Botulinum Toxin for Idiopathic Overactive Bladder Symptoms

Abstract: PURPOSE We systematically reviewed the evidence for the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin in the management of overactive bladder. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a systematic review of the literature to identify articles published between 1985 and March 2009 on intravesical botulinum toxin-A injections for the treatment of refractory idiopathic overactive bladder in men and women. Databases searched included MEDLINE, CENTRAL and Embase. Data were tabulated from case series and from randomized controlled trials, and data were pooled where appropriate. RESULTS Our literature search identified 432 titles and 23 full articles were included in the final review. Three randomized placebo controlled trials addressing the use of botulinum toxin-A were identified (99 patients total). The pooled random effects estimate of effect across all 3 studies was 3.88 (95% CI -6.15, -1.62), meaning that patients treated with botulinum toxin-A had 3.88 fewer incontinence episodes per day. Urogenital Distress Inventory data revealed significant improvements in quality of life compared with placebo with a standardized mean difference of -0.62 (CI -1.04, -0.21). Data from case series demonstrated significant improvements in overactive bladder symptoms and quality of life, despite heterogeneity in methodology and case mix. However, based on the randomized controlled trials there was a 9-fold increased odds of increased post-void residual after botulinum toxin-A compared with placebo (8.55; 95% CI 3.22, 22.71). CONCLUSIONS Intravesical injection of botulinum toxin resulted in improvement in medication refractory overactive bladder symptoms. However, the risk of increased post-void residual and symptomatic urinary retention was significant. Several questions remain concerning the optimal administration of botulinum toxin-A for the patient with overactive bladder.

Deciphering the cells of origin of squamous cell carcinomas

Abstract: Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) are among the most prevalent human cancers. SCC comprises a wide range of tumours originated from diverse anatomical locations that share common genetic mutations and expression of squamous differentiation markers. SCCs arise from squamous and non-squamous epithelial tissues. Here, we discuss the different studies in which the cell of origin of SCCs has been uncovered by expressing oncogenes and/or deleting tumour suppressor genes in the different cell lineages that compose these epithelia. We present evidence showing that the squamous differentiation phenotype of the tumour depends on the type of mutated oncogene and the cell of origin, which dictate the competence of the cells to initiate SCC formation, as well as on the aggressiveness and invasive properties of these tumours.

Long-term durability of percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation for the treatment of overactive bladder

Abstract: Editorial Comment This paper discusses the use of a salvage spiral urethral sling in a very difficult to treat patient population, that is, females who have failed multiple vaginal operations for urinary incontinence The authors provide an excellent technical analysis and state that when using this technique they are able to salvage approximately three out of four Of interest is that they describe the use of both autologous fascia as well as synthetic graft Operative tactics are described in the event of a bladder injury at the time of dissection (laterally placed spiral sling); this is very valuable in view of the potential for injury during the periurethral dissection in this patient population with a history of multiple surgeries In addition, the authors discuss the use of this operation as opposed to the use of artificial urinary sphincter Given the success rate of this operation mirrors that reported for artificial urinary sphincter in female patients, it has a potential to achieve a great deal of popularity in this very difficult to treat population (1)

Liquid biopsy in bladder cancer: state of the art and future perspectives

Abstract: Bladder cancer is the most common malignancy of the urinary tract. Cystoscopy represents the gold standard in the diagnosis of suspicious bladder lesions. However, the procedure is invasive and burdened by pain, discomfort and infective complications. Cytology, which represents an alternative diagnostic possibility is limited by poor sensitivity. Considering the limitations of both procedures, and the necessity to perform multiple evaluations in patients who are in follow-up for bladder cancer, an improved non-invasive methodology is required in the clinical management of this disease. Liquid biopsy, e.g. the detection of clinical biomarkers in urine, represent a promising novel and non-invasive approach that could overcome those limitations and be integrated into the current clinical practice. The aim of this review is to summarize the state of the art of this approach and the latest novelties regarding detection, prognosis and surveillance of bladder cancer.