Biomolecular predictors of urothelial cancer behavior and treatment outcomes

Curr Urol Rep. 2012 Apr;13(2):122-35. doi: 10.1007/s11934-012-0237-1.

Abstract

Urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder (UCB) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy that causes significant morbidity and mortality. Despite advances in surgical and medical treatment, there has been no change in mortality in UCB over the past decades. Standard pathological features (stage, grade, nodal status) provide only limited information regarding biological potential and clinical behavior. Molecular biomarkers may shed light on important mechanisms of pathogenesis, provide useful additional prognostic information, and serve as targets for therapy. This review summarizes recent advances and the most promising UCB tissue and blood biomarkers of the past few years. We discuss the predictive and prognostic value of biomarkers at different stages of UCB. There is no doubt that a panel of biomarkers will eventually improve our clinical decision-making with regard to treatment and follow-up.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / metabolism*
  • Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / mortality*
  • Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / therapy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Cystectomy / methods
  • Disease-Free Survival
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness / pathology
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Prognosis
  • Risk Assessment
  • Survival Analysis
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / mortality*
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / pathology
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / therapy
  • Urothelium / pathology

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor