Detection of ABH antigens via exfoliated urinary cells. A preliminary report.

The expression of ABH blood group antigens of bladder carcinomas heralds a relatively benign clinical course, whereas the antigen's deletion in tumors is often predictive of tumor recurrence and invasion. Using exfoliated urinary cells, we tried the prospective detection of ABH antigens. Though interpretations were independent, the status of antigens on exfoliated cells accorded with that on tissue sections. Detection of blood group antigens via exfoliated urinary cells is a noninvasive, reliable test that could be used for screening and surveillance of patients with bladder tumors. This method permits monitoring of patient ABH isoantigens by prospective screening.