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Updated: Oct 19, 2025
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Assessment of Carcinogen-induced Murine Bladder Tumors
Published on: March 29, 2019
[Molecular diagnostics of bladder cancer-practical ramifications]
Gerald B Schulz1, Christian G Stief1, Matthias Saar2,3
1Urologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum der Universität München (LMU), München, Deutschland.
Abstract:
In the future, precision medicine with agents targeting specific genetic alterations will play an important role in bladder cancer. This includes both single genetic alterations (e.g. FGFR3) and gene panel analyses in patients with no further therapeutic options, rare cancer subtypes or unusual clinical courses. These molecular analyses can be carried out on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor samples and the results should be discussed in interdisciplinary molecular tumor boards in order to either recommend approved targeted therapies or suggest patients for molecular-based clinical trials, compassionate use programs or off-label use of drugs. The remuneration of molecular diagnostics is largely well-represented for the outpatient sector in Germany; however, the covering of treatment costs must currently be approved by the health insurances.
Insights
Precision medicine targeting genetic alterations is crucial for bladder cancer treatment. Molecular diagnostics on tumor samples guide therapy choices and clinical trial enrollment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Precision medicine is emerging as a key strategy in bladder cancer management.
- Targeting specific genetic alterations offers new therapeutic avenues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the role of molecular diagnostics in guiding bladder cancer treatment decisions.
- To discuss the integration of molecular profiling into clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor samples for genetic alterations.
- Discussion of molecular findings in interdisciplinary molecular tumor boards.
Main Results:
- Molecular analyses identify actionable targets for approved therapies or clinical trials.
- These approaches are valuable for patients with limited therapeutic options or rare subtypes.
Conclusions:
- Precision medicine, guided by molecular diagnostics, is essential for future bladder cancer care.
- Interdisciplinary molecular tumor boards are critical for treatment recommendations and patient management.
