A new diagnostic test has been developed to better predict the recurrence and survival of bladder cancer patients. The test is based on the presence of molecular biomarkers Bcl-2, caspase-3, P53 and survivin -- proteins known to regulate apoptosis, or programmed cell death.

[snip] ... patients who showed alterations in all four biomarkers had a significantly increased rate of mortality from cancer after surgery. Patients who showed no mutations in the four biomarkers had a 90 percent chance of survival at five years compared to less than 20 percent if they had four altered markers.

Although these findings are still preliminary, the researchers say such data could help doctors predict which patients might benefit from post-operative treatments such as chemotherapy.

"Patients who have alterations on all four biomarkers might benefit from Adjuvant chemotherapy even if the cancer appears to be confined to their bladder. Otherwise, their chances for survival are likely to be poor," said Dr. Karam. "Likewise, those who show none of the biomarkers might not need unnecessary chemotherapy."

The study has been published online in The Lancet Oncology.