Work

Clinical implications of molecular subtyping in bladder cancer

Year: 2019

Type: review

Abstract: PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to examine and evaluate similarities and differences in bladder cancer expression subtypes and to understand the clinical implications of the molecular subtyping. RECENT FINDINGS: Four independent classification systems have been described, and there are broad similarities among the subtyping callers. Two major subtypes have been identified, that is, luminal and basal, with underlying subcategories based on various distinct characteristics. Luminal tumors generally bear a better prognosis and increased survival than basal tumors, although there is subtle variation in prognosis among the different subtypes within the luminal and basal classifications. Clinical subtyping is now commercially available, although there are limitations to its generalizability and application. SUMMARY: Expression subtyping is a new method to personalize bladder cancer management. However, there is probably not sufficient evidence to incorporate use into current standards-of-care. Validation cohorts with clinically meaningful outcomes may further establish the clinical relevance of molecular subtyping of bladder cancer. Additionally, genetic alterations in bladder cancer may 'color' the interpretation of individual tumors beyond the expression subtype to truly personalize care for bladder cancer.

Source: Current Opinion in Urology

DOI: 10.1097/mou.0000000000000641

Authors: Uttam Satyal, Rahmat K. Sikder, David McConkey, Elizabeth R. Plimack, Philip H. Abbosh

Institutions: Fox Chase Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Jefferson Einstein Philadelphia Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Bladder and Urothelial Cancer Treatments

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Cancer Institute