Detection of cell surface antigen in cancer of renal pelvis and ureter

Thirty-five patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis or ureter of all stages and grades were studied for presence or absence of ABO(H) antigens utilizing an improved technique for staining and preserving the slides. Seventy per cent of the grade I tumors retained their antigens. Patients with antigen present had a longer duration of disease-free interval. Specific red cell adherence (SRCA) may predict the clinical course of patients with low-stage, low-grade transitional cell carcinomas and may be helpful in selecting patients for optimal therapy.