Vitamin A levels in human bladder cancer

The following studies were undertaken to determine the levels of serum carotene and vitamin A (retinol) in Egyptian patients with intestinal, urinary, hepatosplenic schistosomiasis, and bladder cancer. These studies have shown that both serum carotene and serum retinol levels are significantly reduced in patients with bladder cancer when compared to controls. These data, when viewed in light of previous animal studies noted, raise the question as to whether vitamin A administration can be beneficial in the prevention and/or treatment of human bladder cancer, particularly that associated with schistosomiasis.