abstract
- OBJECTIVE: To investigate the expression of microsatellite instability in transitional cell carcinoma of bladder and to detect its diagnostic value. METHODS: Urine samples from 35 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of bladder (TCC) were analyzed by PCR method. 25 patients were followed up to detect microsatellite instability in their urine sediments. RESULTS: Microsatellite changes (including MSI and LOH) were detected in 88.6% of urine sediments (31 of 35 patients). Microsatellite changes were detected in urine sediments of 10 of 12 patients with tumor recurrence, in which the existence of tumor cells in the urine of 3 patients had been correctly predicted before cystoscopic evidence from 3 to 6 months. CONCLUSION Microsatellite analysis of urine sediment may be a novel and potentially clinical tool for the diagnosis and follow-up of bladder cancer patients.