Biologic tumor markers in management of testicular and bladder cancer

The role of biologic markers in the management of testicular and bladder cancer has been described. alpha--fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin when used together have been extremely helpful in detecting recurrence, staging, and monitoring of testicular cancer. The cellular localization of these markers by immunoperoxidase has also been an aid in understanding the natural history of these tumors. The cell surface antigens in bladder cancer have been useful predictors as to whether or not Stage A bladder cancer will develop into more invasive cancer when compared with the conventional histopathologic examination of the bladder tumor. In the last six years we have prospectively utilized these markers in the management of testicular and bladder cancer. The clinical and laboratory findings of these prospective studies are reviewed.