Prognostic value of cell surface antigens using immunoperoxidase methods in bladder carcinoma.

The presence of blood group cell surface antigens in carcinoma of the bladder has been shown to be associated with a relatively benign clinical course, whereas the absence of these antigens is often indicative of tumor recurrences and invasion. In practice, however, detection of these antigens using the SRCA test in tissue sections and urine specimens has been associated with some difficulties especially for O blood group individuals. We have used immunoperoxidase methods for detection of these tumor markers in tissue sections and/or urine specimens of normal individuals and patients with carcinoma of the bladder. The result were then compared with those obtained by SRCA test. Our present study indicates that the lectin antilectin immunoperoxidase method is a more sensitive and superior test for detecting antigen H in tissue sections as well as urine and/or bladder-washing specimens. It has clearly reduced the false negative test results and predicted subsequent recurrences and invasion more accurately in patients with bladder tumors. For best results in group A and B patients, both tests probably should be performed and compared.