Abstract
Early detection of urothelial cancer offers the potential for effective and successful
treatment. Despite previous efforts, currently, there is not a well-validated, recommended
screening program in any country. This integrative, literature-based review provides
details on how recent molecular advances may further advance early tumor detection.
The minimally invasive liquid biopsy is capable of identifying tumor material in human
fluid samples from asymptomatic individuals. Circulating tumor biomarkers (cfDNA,
exosomes, etc.) are very promising and are attracting the interest of numerous studies
for the diagnosis of early-stage cancer. However, this approach definitely needs to
be refined before clinical implementation. Nevertheless, despite the variety of current
obstacles that require further research, the prospect of identifying urothelial carcinoma
by a single urine or blood test seems truly intriguing.
Keywords
genomics - urothelial cancer - liquid biopsy
