Cytogenetic analysis: a potential index for recurrence of early carcinoma of the bladder.

In 15 cancer patients cystoscopic resection or biopsy coupled with cytogenetic analysis at intervals of 3 to 69 months showed persistence of chromosomal patterns with markers (abnormal chromosomes) in 4 of 7 non-invasive and in 6 of 8 submucosal invasive carcinomas. Recurrence was limited to but constant in those carcinomas containing markers. Marker chromosomes have potential value as a prognostic aid. Further, the triad of tetraploidy, markers and submucusal invasive moderately well differentiated carcinoma appears to carry such a lethal prognosis as to militate for early radical resection.