Contemporary diagnosis of bladder cancer

Abstract

Background: Early diagnosis of bladder cancer is mandatory, as a delay in treatment has been shown to affect prognosis. The current diagnostic standard of cystoscopy and cytology is costly, invasive and inconvenient, whereas advances in molecular biology have resulted in the evolvement of several markers. Objective: To review diagnostic considerations in the use of old and new technical modalities and tests for the detection of bladder cancer. Methods: A PubMed search of the literature concerning bladder cancer diagnosis was performed. Reviews are included on certain topics to avoid extensive reference to separate studies. Conclusion: Recent technical advances have an impact on the management of patients with suspected bladder cancer. Cytology is still an important adjunct in the diagnostic work-up, whereas urine-bound tests may have a role in screening and surveillance. However, cystoscopy is the standard of care for the detection of bladder cancer. Fluorescence cystoscopy is an adjunctive tool, especially for the prompt identification of carcinoma in situ. © 2008 Informa UK Ltd