Clinical study of urine NMP 22 (nuclear matrix protein 22) as a tumor marker in urinary epithelial cancer

The prognosis of urinary epithelial cancer is still poor, and early detection of this cancer is strongly desirable. The sensitivity of conventional urinary cytology is not satisfactory enough. It is hoped that a specific tumor marker will be established. In recent years, it has been reported that urine NMP 22 is very useful and that urine BFP is also relatively useful. We have now determined urine NMP22 and BFP and studied their clinical usefulness as a tumor marker. Using patients diagnosed with histologically confirmed urinary epithelial cancer as the subjects, we retrospectively studied the usefulness of NMP 22, BFP and cytology mainly with regard to the sensitivity (positivity rate), and also in relation to atypia, degree of infiltration and clinical course.

Tumor markers in the diagnosis of primary bladder cancer. A systematic review

PURPOSE

We systematically reviewed the available evidence, and obtained and compared summary estimates of the sensitivity and specificity of cytology and the urine based markers bladder tumor antigen, BTA stat (Polymedco, Redmond, Washington), BTA TRAK (Polymedco), NMP22 (Matritech, Cambridge, Massachusetts), telomerase and fibrin degradation product in detecting primary bladder cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Studies on the diagnosis of primary bladder cancer published from 1990 through November 2001 in English and German were retrieved from MEDLINE and EMBASE data bases. In our research we included studies that evaluated 1 or more of the markers, used cystoscopy as the reference standard and allowed the construction of a 2 x 2 contingency table for a per patient analysis. The data plus items on study and clinical characteristics were extracted by 2 observers. Sensitivity and specificity for each marker were estimated using a bivariate random effect meta-analysis. A multivariable analysis was performed to explain study variation.

RESULTS

A total of 42 studies were included in our review. Only 2 studies were available on fibrin degradation product, hence a meta-analysis was not possible. Cytology had the best specificity at 94% (95% CI: 90% to 96%). This figure was significantly better than that of the other markers except for telomerase (specificity 86% [71% to 94%]). Telomerase had the best sensitivity (75% [71% to 79%]) but it was not significantly better than that of BTA stat (70% [66% to 74%]). Case control designs yielded lower values for sensitivity for the tumor markers cytology, bladder tumor antigen and BTA stat.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytology has the best specificity and telomerase the best sensitivity. However, none of the markers studied here is sensitive enough to be recommended for daily routine.

NMP22 in transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder

BACKGROUND

Urinary bladder transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is a common cancer encountered in the human urinary system. The detection of new and recurrent TCC of the urinary bladder was performed using nuclear matrix (NMP22) kit and compare to the urine cytology.

METHODS

Ninety-two patients were included and divided to 3 groups. The first group was composed of patients for detection of recurrence of TCC of the urinary bladder in follow-up check. The second group consisted of patients who had microscopic or gross hematuria. The third group was volunteers. A urine sample was obtained from every enrolled patient. Followed by cystourethroscopy, the urine cytoloy, urine analysis and NMP 22 were performed respectively. A receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was constructed to determine NMP22 cutoff value for optimal sensitivity and specificity to detect bladder tumor. The data was then analyzed with Student-t test.

RESULTS

ROC curve showed an optimal value of greater than 10 units per mL in differentiating positive from negative results. The sensitivity of NMP22 was 91.7% (22/24) and the specificity was 72.1% (49/68) in detection of TCC. The sensitivity and specificity of cytology were 37.5% (9/24) and 97.1% (66/68), respectively. The positive predictive values of NMP22 and cytology were 53.7% and 81.8%, individually. The false-positive rate of NMP22 was 27.9%. More sensitivity was observed in the NMP22 test with regards to high-grade and advanced-stage tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

NMP22 is a highly sensitive tumor marker. However, high false positive rate and unsatisfactory positive predictive value are the drawbacks of this new tumor marker assay. There is inadequate evidence to consider total replacement of cytology with NMP22. But combination of NMP22 and cytology could be the most complete way to avoid unnecessary cystoscopic surveillance.

Performance characteristics of multiple urinary tumor markers and sample collection techniques in the detection of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder

BACKGROUND

The optimal management of bladder cancer requires early detection of both primary tumor as well as recurrences. This study compared the methodologies of the following tumor markers and diagnostic tools: telomerase, bladder tumor-associated analytes (BTA stat), nuclear matrix protein 22 (NMP22), the hemoglobin (Hb) dipstick and chemiluminometric red cell assays, and determined their respective sensitivity and specificity in detection of bladder cancer along with urine cytology.

METHODS

Different sample collection techniques were used including bladder tissue from radical cystectomy or transurethral resection, voided and cystoscopically collected urine and bladder washes. Results of these techniques were compared for some of these markers.

RESULTS

The first study utilizing cystoscopically collected urine and bladder washes, the sensitivity of telomerase in detecting bladder cancer was 92% and 87%, respectively, whereas for bladder tissue it was 93%. The sensitivities of cytology, NMP22 and original BTA, however, were 62%, 54% and 49%, respectively. In the second study using first single voided urine from patients with bladder cancer and non-bladder cancer controls, the greatest sensitivity (overall 77%) and specificity (overall 98%) was exhibited with telomerase. The combined sensitivity of telomerase with that of either the hemoglobin dipstick or chemiluminometric red cell assays, showed that the overall sensitivity was increased to 89% and specificity to 98%.

CONCLUSIONS

The sensitivity and specificity of telomerase activity in conjunction with chemiluminometric red cell or hemoglobin dipstick assay may be considered as an alternative to urinary cytology. It can also supplement cystoscopy for monitoring recurrence of bladder cancer.

[Non-invasive urine tests in diagnosis and as prognostic markers for urinary bladder carcinoma. Comparison of the BTAstat and NMP 22 tests with immunocytology using monoclonal antibodies against Lewis X and 486p3/12]

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

The non-invasive detection of urothelial carcinoma remains challenging. The aim of this study was the prospective evaluation of urine markers for bladder carcinoma. We compared the NMP 22 and BTAstat tests with immunocytology (IC) using monoclonal antibodies against the Lewis X antigen and against 486p3/12.

METHODS

NMP 22 and BTAstat were performed on urine samples, and IC with 486p3/12 and Lewis X staining was performed on urine samples as well as bladder wash specimens ( n=146) in patients ( n=115) undergoing transurethral resection on suspicion of bladder cancer (70 specimens) or follow up cystoscopy because of a history of bladder cancer (76 specimens). Bladder cancer was detected in 54 patients (pTa: n=25, pT1: n=20, pT2: n=8, CiS: n=1). Cut-off levels were 10 U/ml for the NMP 22, 30% positive cells for 486p3/12, and 5% positive cells for the Lewis X test.

RESULTS

The BTAstat test was positive in 65 (44.5%) cases, the NMP 22 in 69 (47.3%) cases, IC with 486p3/12 and the Lewis X was positive in 52 (35.6%) and 109 (74.7%) cases, respectively. Sensitivity was 70.3% (BTAstat), 68.5% (NMP 22), 94.4% (Lewis X), and 68.5% (486p3/12), respectively. The specificity was 70.6% (BTAstat), 65.2% (NMP 22), 36.9% (Lewis X), and 83.6% (486p3/12), respectively. Among the patients with a false positive test 2/22 (9.0%) patients (BTAstat), 2/25 (8%) patients (NMP 22 test), 4/43 (9.3%) patients (Lewis X), and 3/11 (27%) patients (486p3/12), respectively, suffered from tumor recurrence. In contrast, among the patients with a correct negative test 2/39 (2.0%) (BTAstat), 2/36 (0.5%) (NMP 22), 0/18 (0%) (Lewis X), and 1/50 (2.0%) (486p3/12), respectively, suffered from tumor recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

IC with the Lewis X revealed a higher sensitivity than all of the tested, commercially available methods. Because of its high sensitivity and its high negative predictive value, the Lewis X test may be useful for screening a high-risk population. Patients with a false positive 486p3/12 test have an increased risk of tumor recurrence when compared with patients with a correct negative test.

Neural network using combined urine nuclear matrix protein-22, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and urinary intercellular adhesion molecule-1 to detect bladder cancer

PURPOSE

We developed a neural network to identify patients with bladder cancer more effectively than hematuria and cytology. The algorithm is based on combined urine levels of nuclear matrix protein-22, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and urinary intercellular adhesion molecule-1.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized double-blinded study of voided urine from 253 patients undergoing outpatient cystoscopy was performed. Of the patients 27 had bladder cancer on biopsy and 5 had muscle invasion. Urine tumor markers were measured using sandwich-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Urine from patients with bladder cancer on cystoscopy was compared to urine from controls with negative cystoscopy results. An algorithm was created with 3 sets of cutoff values modeled to be 100% sensitive for superficial bladder cancer, 100% specific for superficial cancer and 100% specific for muscle invasive cancer, respectively. We compared our model to hematuria and cytology.

RESULTS

For the hematuria dipstick test sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 92.6%, 51.8%, 18.7% and 98.2%, respectively. For atypical cytology sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 66.7%, 81%, 29.5% and 95.3%, respectively. For the sensitive model set sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 100%, 75.7%, 32.9% and 100%, respectively. For the specific model set sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 22.2%, 100%, 100% and 91.5%, respectively. For the muscle invasive model set sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 80%, 100%, 100% and 99.6%, respectively. The standard bladder tumor evaluation of 253 patients costs 61,054 US dollars but 36,450 US dollars using our model.

CONCLUSIONS

Our algorithm is superior to conventional screening tests for bladder cancer. The model identifies patients who require cystoscopy, those with bladder cancer and those with muscle invasive disease. It provides possible savings over current screening methods. The potential loss of other information by not performing cystoscopy was not evaluated in our study.

Are false-positive urine markers for the detection of bladder carcinoma really wrong or do they predict tumor recurrence?

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

A problem in the interpretation of noninvasive urine tests for detection of bladder carcinoma is the finding of false-positive results. Several authors have described that patients with false-positive results are at high risk for tumor recurrence or progression. Only few data are available for comparing the clinical course of patients with false-positive test results and patients with true-negative results. We studied whether patients with false-positive results of various urine test had a higher recurrence rate than patients with true-negative results.

METHODS

Urine samples from 61 patients without evidence of active bladder carcinoma were included. Of the 61 patients, 51 had a history of bladder cancer, and 10 underwent transurethral resection for suspect of bladder carcinoma but had negative pathologic findings. Immunocytology (Lewis X and 486p3/12) was performed on bladder washings, and BTAstat and NMP22 were performed on urine samples.

RESULTS

During the follow-up period, 22 patients had one or more false-positive BTAstat test results, 25 patients had one or more false-positive NMP22 tests, 42 patients had at least one false-positive Lewis X test, and 11 patients had one or more false-positive 486p3/12 test. During a follow-up period of 3-39 months (median, 17.6 months) four patients expected a tumor recurrence. Among patients with false-positive urine test results 2 of 22 (9.1%, BTAstat), 2 of 25 (8%, NMP22), 4 of 42 (9.5%, Lewis X), and 3 of 11 (27.2%, 486p3/12) suffered from tumor recurrence. In contrast, among patients with true-negative test results 2 of 39 (5.2%, BTAstat), 2 of 36 (5.6%, NMP22), 0 of 18 (0%, Lewis X), 1 of 50 (2.0%, 486p3/12) had a tumor recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a false-positive urine test result do not generally have a greater risk of tumor recurrence or progression than patients with a true-negative result. In our series, only patients with false-positive 486p3/12 test result had a higher recurrence rate. Our findings do not justify a more aggressive adjuvant treatment or surveillance for patients with false-positive urine tests.

Measurements of complement factor H-related protein (BTA-TRAK assay) and nuclear matrix protein (NMP22 assay)--useful diagnostic tools in the diagnosis of urinary bladder cancer?

Between 1997 and 2000 we investigated in a prospective study the voided urine samples of all consecutive patients undergoing cystoscopy independent from their clinical background (n = 705) with the BTA-TRAK assay (Bard Diagnostics, Redmont, USA) detecting a complement factor H-related protein (CFHrP) and the NMP22 assay (Matritech, Newton, USA) measuring a nuclear matrix protein, which is supposed to be specific for bladder cancer. The individuals were divided into three groups concerning the clinical background: 233 patients had urological diseases, 268 patients had urinary bladder cancer and 150 patients had other urological malignancies. Based on the clinical findings we compared our results with well established diagnostic methods for urinary bladder cancer such as cytology and the detection of hematuria. In addition, we investigated urine samples from 30 healthy individuals and 24 patients with urinary tract infection without performing cystoscopy. Following the recommendations of the European Group on Tumor Markers we used 95% specificity for benign urological diseases and urinary tract infections, which resulted in a sensitivity of 17% for active bladder cancer for the BTA-TRAK assay and 31% for NMP22. We compared these results with the detection of hematuria (specificity: 72%) and cytology, which had a sensitivity of 64% and 89%, respectively. Subsequently, we calculated sensitivity and specificity for the detection of relapse of the disease. Again using 95% specificity, in this case for patients with no evidence of disease (NED), in patients with recurrent disease the BTA-TRAK assay showed 8% sensitivity as compared to 12% for the NMP22 assay. Due to an insufficient specificity and sensitivity, both tests can neither be clinically useful in screening of high risk patients, nor in primary diagnosis of bladder cancer. They cannot replace neither cystoscopy nor cytology. In the follow-up care more investigations may be necessary to prove the benefit of existing diagnostic strategies for the discrimination between active and inactive bladder cancer.

[NMP-22 test. Is it useful in the follow-up of patients with superficial bladder tumor?]

OBJECTIVES

1.--To evaluate the efficacy of the NMP-22 as a diagnostic test for bladder tumor recidives; 2.--To compare the efficacy of NMP-22 vs. urine cytology.

METHODS

90 Patients with superficial bladder tumors were included in the study, undergoing cytologic, cystoscopic and NMP-22 marker controls. NMP 22 test was considered positive when the marker signal was higher than 10 U/ml. Cistoscopy was the reference test.

RESULTS

Patients in the study had an average age of 69 years, ranging from 45 to 91. 88% were males and 12% females. 61.2% of the tumors were Ta, 37.6% T1 and 1.2% Cis, being 17.8% grade I, 63.4% grade II and 18.8% grade III. NMP-22 showed a global sensitivity of 32.1%, and a specificity of 5.1%. Positive predictive value (PPV) was 75% and negative predictive value (NPV) 75.3% for a relapse rate of 27.7%. Urine cytology showed an overall sensitivity of 28.6%, 95.2% specificity, PPV 72.7% and NPV 74.7%. When both tests were used altogether sensitivity was 46.4%, specificity 90.3%, PPV 68.43% and NPV 78.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

The NMP-22 marker has shown low sensitivity so that control by cystoscopy may not be avoided. The combination of NMP-22 and urine cytology increases sensitivity minimally. It is not possible to replace cystoscopy in the follow-up of patients with superficial bladder tumors.

Newly diagnosed bladder cancer: the relationship of initial symptoms, degree of microhematuria and tumor marker status

PURPOSE

We recorded initial symptoms and evaluated the frequency and intensity of hematuria in patients with newly diagnosed bladder cancer. We also evaluated and compared the sensitivity of bladder wash cytology, NMP22 (Matritech, Newton, Massachusetts), BTA Stat (Bion Diagnostic Sciences, Redmond, Washington) and UBC antigen (IDL Biotech, Sollentona, Sweden) with hematuria dipsticks and flow cytometry for determining the size of erythrocytes in urine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Urine samples were collected from 92 patients with newly diagnosed bladder cancer, 64 with idiopathic microhematuria and 42 with nephritis. Urine was analyzed for NMP22, BTA Stat, UBC and erythrocytes size using flow cytometry. Bladder wash cytology was done at cystoscopy. Urine was analyzed for microhematuria with hematuria dipsticks at home for 7 consecutive days immediately before the operation and in the hospital on the day of surgery.

RESULTS

Sensitivity was 75% for NMP22, 78% for BTA Stat, 64% for UBC and 61% for flow cytometry at 73% specificity. Cytology had 42% sensitivity at 97% specificity. Tumor size, grade and stage had a statistically significant influence on NMP22, BTA Stat, UBC and cytology. Of the patients 75% had microhematuria on the day of the operation and 75% had hematuria at least 1 of 7 days when tested at home the last week before transurethral bladder resection. The 70% of all patients with macroscopic hematuria as the initial symptom did not seem to differ from those without the condition in tumor size, grade, stage or tumor marker levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Flow cytometry was not well enough able to distinguish patients with bladder cancer from controls. The sensitivity of all tested markers, including hematuria dipsticks, was high for large and high grade, high stage tumors. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether a marker could be used to determine priority among patients referred due to microhematuria.

The role of nuclear matrix protein 22 combined with bladder tumor antigen stat test in surveillance of recurring bladder cancer

OBJECTIVE

To investigate a non-invasive, effective and rapid mode of detecting the recurrence of bladder cancer during follow-up.

METHODS

Ninety patients following transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBt) surgery were recruited from January 1998 to March 2000. Standard ELISA was used to determine the quantity of nuclear matrix protein (NMP-22) in urine of all bladder cancer patients during their follow-up periods. Urine bladder tumor antigen (BTA) stat test was simultaneously performed and followed by cystoscopy.

RESULTS

The total positive rates of urinary NMP-22 and BTA stat test were 76.7% (33/43) and 67.4% (29/43), respectively. Comparatively, this positive rate would increase to 93.0% (40/43) when the combination of both urine NMP-22 and BTA test were adopted.

CONCLUSION

Examination of NMP-22 in urine is a rapid and effective way to detect the recurrence of bladder cancer. If combined with BTA test, NMP-22 may be used as a non-invasive method in surveillance of recurring of bladder cancer, which may reduce the frequency of patients needing to undergo conventional invasive cystoscopy.

Value of urinary NMP-22 in patients with renal cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the preoperative and postoperative levels of urinary nuclear matrix protein-22 (NMP-22) in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and compare them with those of control patients. We also investigated and reported the relationship of NMP-22 with the pathologic grade and stage of RCC tumors. Urinary NMP-22 is currently used for monitoring patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder.

METHODS

The preoperative and postoperative urinary NMP-22 levels were measured in 23 patients with RCC and 20 control patients in whom solid renal masses were ruled out by either computed tomography or renal ultrasonography. The control group consisted of patients with benign conditions from the urology, gastroenterologic surgery, and cardiovascular surgery departments. Of the 23 patients with RCC, 21 underwent radical nephrectomy and 2 underwent partial nephrectomy.

RESULTS

The preoperative urinary NMP-22 levels were significantly higher in the RCC group than in the control group (10.65 +/- 5.49 U/mL and 4.64 +/- 3.10 U/mL, respectively, P <0.001). Ten days postoperatively, the urinary NMP-22 levels had decreased from 10.65 +/- 5.49 U/mL to 5.98 +/- 3.86 U/mL in the RCC group, which was statistically significant (P <0.001). The postoperative urinary NMP-22 levels were not different from those of the control group (5.98 +/- 3.86 U/mL versus 4.64 +/- 3.10 U/mL, P = 0.176).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study are promising for the use of urinary NMP-22 in the evaluation of patients who are at risk of RCC because the relationship between urinary NMP-22 and the presence of RCC has been shown.

[Significance of urinary nuclear matrix protein 22 in diagnosis of transitional cell carcinoma of urinary tract]

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

There is no effective non-invasive monitoring method for transitional cell carcinoma of urinary tract(TCCU). It was recently reported that nuclear matrix protein 22(NMP22) could be used to diagnose TCCU. This study was designed to evaluate the significance of NMP22 in TCCU as a new urinary tumor marker and its influence factors.

METHODS

The authors detected 87 patients with urinary system disease(including 29 cases with TCCU) with ELISA-NMP agent box. The patients with urinary infection were excluded.

RESULTS

The positive value was set at more than 10 u/ml. The sensitivity and specificity of NMP22 on TCCU were 86.2% and 94.3%, respectively (benign diseases of urinary system used as control), with significant advantages over voided-urine cytology (86.2% vs 42.3%, P < 0.001). The main factors that caused false-positive results were urinary infection, the other malignant tumors of urinary system, bowel interposition, and nephrolith.

CONCLUSION

Urinary NMP22 is a good tumor marker and could be used an alternation of voided-urine cytology for monitoring and diagnosis of TCCU.

A study comparing various noninvasive methods of detecting bladder cancer in urine

OBJECTIVES

To compare the nuclear matrix protein (NMP)-22 assay, bladder tumour specific antigen (BTAstat) test, telomerase activity (using the telomeric repeat amplification protocol assay, TRAP) and a haemoglobin dipstick test for their ability to replace voided urine cytology (VUC) for detecting bladder cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 120 urological patients prospectively recruited and assessed before surgery. A single freshly voided urine sample (approximate 100 mL) was collected from each patient and aliquoted for each test. All assays were conducted according to the manufactures' guidelines; 79 patients were tested for telomerase activity. The results were then compared with VUC and the diagnosis confirmed by cystoscopy and histology.

RESULTS

Fifty-two patients had histologically confirmed transitional cell carcinoma. The overall sensitivity for BTAstat, NMP22, telomerase, VUC and dipstick testing was 63%, 81%, 84%, 48% and 50%, respectively. Combining the results for telomerase and NMP22 gave a sensitivity of 100%. For G1 tumours the respective sensitivities were 23%, 62%, 56%, 23% and 15%, for G2 tumours, 68%, 86%, 92%, 50% and 41% and for G3 tumours 88%, 88%, 100%, 71% and 82%. For pTa tumours the respective detection rates were 48%, 70%, 84%, 39% and 30%, for pT1 tumours 80%, 90%, 90%, 50% and 50%, for pT2/pTis tumours, 100/100%, 100/100%, 100/100%, 88/100% and 88/83%. The overall specificity for the respective tests was 82%, 87%, 93%, 87% and 54%; combining the results of NMP22 and telomerase activity increased the specificity to 96%.

CONCLUSIONS

There was significantly better detection than VUC when using the NMP22 and TRAP assay, especially for well-differentiated (P < 0.001 and 0.0027, respectively) and superficial tumours (P < 0.001 and 0.034, respectively). Combining the results of NMP22 and telomerase activity yielded values comparable with cystoscopy.

Evaluation of nuclear matrix protein 22 (NMP22) as a tumor marker in the detection of bladder cancer

We prospectively evaluated the performance of urinary NMP22 test in the detection of transitional carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder. Urine samples were obtained from 39 patients with known bladder cancer, 37 patients with primary hematuria. 18 with benign urological conditions and 20 healthy subjects. Overall sensitivity and specificity of NMP22 with reference value of 10 U/ml was 72 and 73%, respectively. Sensitivity for pT1 and pT2 tumors was 83%, whereas that for pTa tumors was 55%. When the test was determined before and after transurethral resection (TUR) of bladder tumor, it was shown that the TUR effected the NMP22 level. Urinary NMP22 was highly sensitive for high-risk bladder cancer. However, the sensitivity of the test is somewhat lower in low grade and stage tumors. Additionally, the effect of previous resection limits its value in the follow up of patients with superficial tumors. The larger series with longer follow up may lead us to determine the time to neglect the effect of TUR on NMP22 and the test kit should be upgraded by the manufacturer to exclude the false positive results due to inflammatory conditions.

Four bladder tumor markers have a disappointingly low sensitivity for small size and low grade recurrence

PURPOSE

We determine the sensitivity and specificity of 3 bladder tumor markers in urine, including NMP22 assay (Matritech, Newton, Massachusetts), BTA stat test (Bion Diagnostic Sciences, Inc., Redmond, Washington) and UBC antigen (IDL Biotech, Sollentuna, Sweden), and bladder wash cytology for new and recurrent bladder cancer. We examine whether tumor size, grade, and stage influence sensitivity and specificity of the markers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 304 samples in 250 patients were studied. There were 174 patients who had a history of bladder cancer, including 93 with and 81 without recurrent tumor at cystoscopy. The other group of patients consisted of 66 with newly diagnosed bladder tumor and 64 investigated for microscopic hematuria that was found to be idiopathic. BTA stat was assayed according to manufacturer instructions. NMP22 and UBC were measured in urine with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A cutoff level of 4 for NMP22 and 1 for UBC was chosen to get the same specificity for new tumors as BTA stat (75%)

RESULTS

There was a highly significant difference (p <0.001) in all markers between patients with new bladder tumors and those without. The difference was less pronounced for tumor recurrence for NMP22, UBC and BTA stat (p=0.002, 0.016 and 0.244, respectively). The difference between new and recurrent tumors disappeared when corrected for tumor size, grade and stage. The sensitivity for new tumors was 65%, 75% and 60% for NMP22, BTA stat and UBC, respectively. Cytology had a sensitivity of 41% for new tumors at a specificity of 94%. The specificity for recurrence was 64% for NMP22, 54% BTA stat and 72% UBC. The sensitivity was 45% for NMP22, 55% BTA stat and 40% UBC.

CONCLUSIONS

Tumor size, grade and stage have a strong impact on sensitivity, and specificity for all 3 tested tumor markers as well as bladder wash cytology. The tumor markers or any combination of them cannot replace followup cystoscopy, mainly because most recurrences are small. The role of the markers for screening high risk populations and as a complement to followup cystoscopy remains to be evaluated.

Utility of serial urinary tumor markers to individualize intervals between cystoscopies in the monitoring of patients with bladder carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Cross-section studies have shown the diagnostic characteristics of certain urinary tumor markers for the detection of bladder carcinoma. However, the role of serial urinary tumor markers in the monitoring of patients with bladder carcinoma in daily clinical surveillance has not been completely defined yet.

METHODS

The study comprised 1185 urine samples belonging to 232 patients with a previous bladder carcinoma: 106 patients under follow-up (Group 1) and 126 bladder carcinoma patients receiving intravesic instillations (Group 2). Patients were monitored with urinary tumor markers during a one-year follow-up period. Urine samples were collected before cystoscopies and in the intercystoscopic periods for patients in Group 1 and before intravesic instillations for patients Group 2. Urinary bladder carcinoma antigen (UBC), CYFRA 21-1 and nuclear matrix proteins (NMP22) were measured by immunoassays.

RESULTS

Monitoring of the disease with urinary tumor markers could detect recurrence sooner than scheduled cystoscopies in 27 patients (87%) for UBC, 27 patients (87%) for CYFRA 21-1, and 26 patients (84%) for NMP22 out of 31 Group 1 patients who recurred; and in 16 patients (67%) for UBC, 17 patients (71%) for cytokeratin fragments (CYFRA) 21-1, and 13 patients (54%) for NMP22 out of 24 Group 2 patients who recurred. The most relevant finding was that persistence of negative urinary markers during follow-up was largely indicative of disease free status in 65 of 75 (87%) patients of Group 1 and 31 of 102 (30%) cases of Group 2. Although false positive results were present, they were mainly associated with sporadic urinary tract infections in 10 of 75 (13%) cases of Group 1 and in 36 of 102 (35%) patients of Group 2; and with urine samples collected in the first two months at the beginning of intravesic therapy in 35 of 102 patients (34%) in Group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Monitoring of bladder carcinoma patients with serial urinary tumor markers could anticipate detection of recurrence. Persistent negative results might postpone and reduce the number of cystoscopies. Once the limitations leading to false positive results are controlled by urinalysis and by starting sample collection when basal levels are reached in patients with intravesic therapy, urinary tumor markers might eventually individualize the intervals between cystoscopies in the surveillance of patients with bladder carcinoma.

Urinary levels of nuclear matrix protein 22 in patients with urinary diversion

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the influence of various types of urinary diversion on urinary nuclear matrix protein 22 (U-NMP22) levels.

METHODS

U-NMP22 values were determined for 38 urinary diversion patients without upper urinary tract cancer. The patients were divided into three groups: tubeless cutaneous ureterostomy (n = 12), ileal conduit (n = 15), and continent urinary reservoir (n = 11). The mean values and false-positive rates of U-NMP22 (cutoff value 12 U/mL) were compared among the three groups.

RESULTS

The mean +/- standard error U-NMP22 value for the ureterostomy, ileal conduit, and reservoir groups was 20.1 +/- 5.8 U/mL, 335.6 +/- 63.5 U/mL, and 671.8 +/- 220.4 U/mL, respectively (P = 0.0030). The false-positive rate of U-NMP22 for the ureterostomy, ileal conduit, and reservoir groups was 41.7%, 100%, and 100%, respectively. In the ureterostomy group, the exclusion of patients with pyuria improved the false-positive rate of U-NMP22 from 41.7% to 12.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

U-NMP22 levels may be useful in the diagnosis of upper urinary tract cancer in patients with a tubeless cutaneous ureterostomy. However, in patients with urinary diversion using a bowel segment, U-NMP22 has no diagnostic value because of the high U-NMP22 levels.

[Significance and application of nuclear matrix protein 22 in detecting bladder cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the significance of nuclear matrix protein 22 (NMP22) in the detection of bladder cancer.

METHODS

The level of NMP22 was measured in the urine of 90 patients (40 patients with bladder cancer and 50 patients with non-bladder cancer) by ELISA and compared with urinic cytology (UC).

RESULTS

The level of NMP22 in bladder cancer group was significantly higher than that of control group, and it was not influenced by hematuria. The sensitivity of NMP22 was high, but the specificity was lower than that of UC.

CONCLUSION

NMP22 can be used to screen and follow up bladder cancer with high sensitivity.

NMP 22, BTA stat test and cytology in the diagnosis of bladder cancer: a comparative study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the usefulness of the NMP 22 and BTA stat test in the diagnosis and follow-up of bladder cancer and to compare these tests to cytology and cystoscopy, routine diagnostic methods.

METHODS

150 patients followed up for bladder cancer or symptoms suggestive of bladder cancer underwent cystoscopy after cytology, NMP 22 and BTA stat test using a recently voided urine sample. In suspect cases, TUR and histopathological analysis were performed.

RESULTS

Bladder cancer was proven in 76 patients and excluded in 74. For NMP 22 we have used the cutoff value recommended by the manufacturer (10 U/ml) and that obtained by our receiver-operating characteristic curve (6 U/ml). Sensitivity was 84.21% for NMP 22 at the cutoff value of 6 U/ml and 76.32% with 10 U/ml; 72.37% for BTA stat test; 69.74% for cytology, and 100% for cystoscopy. Specificity was 86.49% for NMP 22 at a cutoff value of 6 U/ml and 90.54% at 10 U/ml; 89.19% for the BTA stat test; 93.24% for cytology and 89.19% for cystoscopy. NMP 22 sensitivity for grades 1, 2, and 3 was 68.75, 75.86 and 100%, respectively, at a cutoff value of 6 U/ml, and 50, 68.97 and 96.77%, respectively, at a cutoff level of 10 U/ml; for BTA stat the sensitivity was 56.25% in G1, 62.07% in G2 and 90.32% in G3, and for cytology the sensitivity was 43.75, 62.07 and 90.32%, respectively. The sensitivity of NMP 22 was 68.75% in stage Ta, 84.78% in T1 and 100% in T2-T4 at a cutoff level of 6 U/ml and 50, 80.43 and 92.86%, respectively, at a cutoff level of 10 U/ml; BTA stat sensitivity was 50% in Ta, 73.91% in T1 and 92.86% in T2-T4; and in cytology the results were 37.50, 73.91 and 85.71%, respectively. Using the McNemar test, there was only a significant difference between the sensitivity of NMP 22 at a cutoff level of 6 U/ml and cytology in the overall sample.

CONCLUSIONS

The high sensitivity of the NMP 22 and BTA stat test in combination with the data obtained from the parameters used for the evaluation of the test demonstrate their usefulness in the diagnosis and follow-up of bladder cancer. NMP 22 at a cutoff value of 6 U/ml is significantly more sensitive than cytology and consequently a thoroughly valid diagnostic tool in the diagnosis of bladder cancer which may substitute voided urine cytology.

A comparison of urinary nuclear matrix protein-22 and bladder tumour antigen tests with voided urinary cytology in detecting and following bladder cancer: the prognostic value of false-positive results

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of the nuclear matrix protein-22 (NMP22) and bladder tumour antigen (BTAstat) tests compared with voided urinary cytology (VUC) in detecting and following bladder cancer, assessing particularly the prognostic value of false-positive test results in patients followed up for bladder cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From 739 patients suspected of having bladder cancer, voided urine samples for the NMP22 and BTAstat tests, and for VUC and urine analysis, were collected before cystoscopy. All patients underwent transurethral resection of bladder lesions or mapping. and were followed for a mean (range) of 27.3 (3-65) months.

RESULTS

In the 406 patients with bladder cancer, the overall sensitivity was 85% for NMP22, 70% for BTAstat and 62% for VUC. For histological grades 1-3 the sensitivity in detecting transitional cell carcinoma was 82%, 89% and 94% for NMP22, 53%, 76% and 90% for BTAstat, and 38%, 68% and 90% for VUC, respectively. Although the sensitivity in detecting invasive carcinoma was >85% for all the tests. NMP22 and BTAstat were statistically more sensitive than VUC for superficial tumours. The optimal threshold value for NMP22, calculated using the receiver operating characteristics curve was 8.25 U/mL. The specificity was 68% for NMP22, 67% for BTAstat, and 96% for VUC. The specificity of VUC remained >87% and was independent of benign histological findings. In contrast, in patients with no apparent genitourinary disease on histology, NMP22 and BTAstat had significantly higher specificity (94% and 92%, respectively: P=0.003) than in the group with chronic cystitis (52% for both tests). Forty patients having no bladder cancer at biopsy had a recurrence after a mean (range) follow-up of 7.7 (3-15) months: all had a previous history of bladder cancer. According to subsequent recurrence, the prognostic positive and negative predictive values were 18% and 91% for NMP22, 13% and 88% for BTAstat, and 79% and 91% for VUC. Both false-positive VUC and NMP22 tests predicted recurrence (log-rank test, P<0.001 and P=0.004, respectively), but the BTAstat test produced no similar correlation (P=0.778).

CONCLUSION

The NMP22 and BTAstat tests are better than VUC for detecting superficial and low-grade bladder cancer but they have significantly lower specificity. After excluding diseases with the potential to interfere in these tests the overall specificity of both tests is increased considerably. False-positive results from NMP22 and VUC but not from BTAstat in patients followed up for bladder cancer correlate with future recurrences.

[Urinary tumor marker for urothelial cancer]

The urinary tumor markers BTA, BFP and NMP22 used for urothelial cancer in Japan are reviewed briefly. We also evaluate and compare the sensitivity and specificity of BTA, BFP and NMP22 with urine cytology in detecting bladder cancer in 24 of our patients. The results showed that the sensitivity with urine cytology, BTA, BFP and NMP22 was 37, 54, 66 and 62% respectively. The specificity of BTA, BFP and NMP22 with urine cytology was 100, 65, 60 and 70% respectively. The sensitivity with BTA, BFP and NMP22 for urothelial cancer was higher than that with urine cytology. However, all except for urine cytology showed high false positive rates (83-90%) for urinary tract infection. These markers may thus complement urine cytology, which has a low sensitivity for urothelial cancer. Quite possibly they could act as low-cost and useful tumor markers, which could in turn reduce the number of invasive cystoscopic examinations. However, considering their high false positive rates for benign disease such as urinary tract infection, we must acknowledge that an ideal urothelial tumor marker, which is simple, non-invasive, inexpensive and accurate with high sensitivity and specificity has yet to be developed.

Evaluation of the clinical value of urinary NMP22 as a marker in the screening and surveillance of transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder

PURPOSE

To prospectively evaluate the clinical role of urinary NMP22 as a marker for transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder in screening and surveillance settings.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Single voided specimens were obtained from 211 consecutive patients who presented for flexible cystoscopy. Of these, 96 patients presented with haematuria or irritative symptoms (screening), the remaining 115 were patients with known transitional cell carcinoma on follow-up (surveillance). The urine sample was used for urine microscopy, cytology and for measuring NMP22 levels.

RESULTS

Bladder tumours were found in 16 of 96 (16.6%) patients in the screening group and 17 of 115 (15.6%) patients on surveillance. The NMP22 levels were significantly lower in patients with lower stage (Ta vs. T1-3), low grade (G1, G2 vs. G3, CIS) and papillary morphology. The optimum threshold for NMP22 obtained from the ROC curve was 4.75 U/ml, providing a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 42.4, 85, 38.5 and 88.6%, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity were better in patients being screened than in those on surveillance. In both groups, urinary NMP22 had similar diagnostic characteristics as urinary cytology.

CONCLUSIONS

Urinary NMP22 levels are significantly higher in patients with bladder tumour than in those negative for tumours, and test predictability improves with increasing stage and grade. The overall sensitivity for urinary NMP22 is similar to, but not superior to urine cytology. Our study suggests that the clinical role of urinary NMP22 as a diagnostic marker can be at best supportive only.

Comparative evaluation of the diagnostic performance of the BTA stat test, NMP22 and urinary bladder cancer antigen for primary and recurrent bladder tumors

PURPOSE

We compared overall sensitivity and specificity of the urinary bladder cancer antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (UBC, IDL Biotech, Sollentuna, Sweden), BTA stat test (Bion Diagnostic Sciences, Inc., Redmond, Washington) and NMP22 test kit (Matritech, Newton, Massachusetts), and the differential sensitivity regarding the histological pattern of tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 213 patients with clinical and/or imaging signs of bladder cancer provided a single voided urine sample for the bladder cancer antigen, BTA stat test and NMP22 before cystoscopy. Of these patients 95 were monitored for superficial bladder cancer, while the remaining 118 had no history of bladder cancer. All detected bladder tumors or suspicious lesions were resected transurethrally. A group of 21 age and sex matched healthy volunteers were also evaluated with the same tests.

RESULTS

Bladder cancer was confirmed histologically in 118 patients, of whom primary and recurrent tumors were in 68 and 50, respectively. The optimal cutoffs calculated with receiver operating characteristics curves were 8 units per ml. for NMP22 and 12 microg./l. for bladder cancer antigen. Overall sensitivity and specificity were 72.9% and 64.6% for the BTA stat test, 63.5% and 75.0% for NMP22, and 80.5% and 80.2%, respectively, for bladder cancer antigen. Bladder cancer antigen proved significantly more sensitive than NMP22 for detecting bladder cancer (p = 0.001) but not more than the BTA stat test, while the specificity of it was significantly higher than that of the BTA stat test (p = 0.009). Bladder cancer antigen had a sensitivity of 80.7% for stage Ta tumors, which was significantly higher than NMP22 (52.6%, p = 0.001) and the BTA stat test (57.9%, p = 0.01). In grade I tumors the sensitivity of bladder cancer antigen (70%) did not differ significantly than that of the BTA stat test (50%) and NMP22 (50%, p = 0.14). Bladder cancer antigen had the least false-positive results in patients with a history of bladder cancer and negative cystoscopy, and those with urological disease other than bladder cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that bladder cancer antigen may be a more potent diagnostic marker for bladder cancer than NMP22 and the BTA stat test based on the higher sensitivity for detecting low stage and low grade tumors, and the higher specificity. The contribution of these tests for detection of bladder cancer should still be considered adjunctive to cystoscopy.

Serial urinary IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, TNFalpha, UBC, CYFRA 21-1 and NMP22 during follow-up of patients with bladder cancer receiving intravesical BCG

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the potential role of serial preinstillation levels of several interleukins, TNFalpha and urinary tumor markers to monitor patients with bladder cancer receiving intravesical BCG.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

121 urine samples were collected from: patients with bladder cancer treated with BCG (group 1); patients with bladder cancer receiving other intravesical treatment (group 2) and patients with urinary tract infections (group 3). Cytokines [IL-2, IL6 and [L8] and TNFalpha and urinary tumor markers [UBC, CYFRA 21-1 and NMP22] were measured by immunoassays.

RESULTS

In 3 out of 15 BCG non-responders that recurred over the period of the study, no cytokine peak for IL-2, IL-6 or TNFa were detected. Urinary tumor markers increased in 2 out of 3 of these patients earlier than scheduled cystoscopies. Cytokine measurement was heterogeneous among 12 out of 15 BCG-responding patients: there were low levels of IL-6 and TNFalpha and peaks of IL-2 and IL-8 in 10 out of 12 and 4 out of 12 patients, respectively. During responding patients' follow-up we observed false-positive results in 7 out of 65 urine samples for UBC, 8 out of 65 for CYFRA 21-1 and 20 out of 65 for NMP22. Urinary tract infections were the main factor associated with non-specific elevations of IL-6 and IL-8 and urinary tumor markers in all groups of patients.

CONCLUSION

Although larger series are required to confirn our preliminary observations, our data argue for a potential predictive role for IL-2 of favourable response to BCG therapy. Monitoring BCG with urinary tumor markers could early detect recurrence in non-responding patients.