Prognostic factors in superficial bladder cancer

A large body of evidence suggests that intravesical prophylaxis using bacillus Calmette-Guérin can favorably alter the natural history of superficial bladder cancer. The search for prognostic factors impacting the clinical alternative between conservative and radical treatment has been the subject of numerous efforts and remains a major objective in improving the carcinological results and the quality of life patients with superficial bladder cancer. In this regard, information is available on three levels: clinicopathological parameters, quantitative analysis, and biological markers. Recent advances in as well as the limitations and pitfalls of the use of three kinds of information in prognostication are reviewed. The proper use of prognostic factors will modify our attitude toward superficial bladder cancer in the near future.