Fifteen cases with primary ureteral carcinomas are reported with a review of the literature. We conclude L Excretory urography is the main method of diagnosis; retrograde uretero-pyelography is more helpful in diagnosis; cystoscopy is also necessary before operation; CT is useful in diagnosing and staging; ureteroscopy could be performed if necessary; the traditional total nephroureterectomy with a cuff excision of the urinary bladder remains the basic treatment of choice; cystoscopy, excretory urography and adjuvant intravesical therapy should be carried out regularly after operation.