Radiology, Vol 198, 89-91, Copyright © 1996 by Radiological Society of North America
Urothelial striations revisited
MD Parker and RL Clark
Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, USA.
PURPOSE: To confirm that use of low-osmolality contrast media (LOCM) in
urography increases the frequency with which striations occur in otherwise
healthy adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two series of urograms obtained in
207 adult patients (101 men, 106 women) at two institutions after the
administration of either LOCM or high-osmolality contrast media (HOCM) were
reviewed. At the first, 106 patients had received LOCM; at the second, 101
had received HOCM. Protocols were similar. Urograms were evaluated for the
presence and extent of striations. RESULTS: Of 106 LOCM urograms, 16 (15%)
showed striations. Of 101 HOCM urograms, only two (2%) showed striations.
The difference in striations shown between the two groups was significant
(P < .002). Striations were most common in renal pelves and distal
ureters and on radiographs obtained after voiding. CONCLUSION: Detection of
urothelial striations on LOCM urograms in adults is most often normal.
Increased prevalence of striations is likely due to decreased urinary tract
distention associated with LOCM use.
