Precision Medicine in Bladder Cancer: Present Challenges and Future Directions

Bladder cancer (BC) is characterized by significant histopathologic and molecular heterogeneity. The discovery of molecular pathways and knowledge of cellular mechanisms have grown exponentially and may allow for better disease classification, prognostication, and development of novel and more efficacious noninvasive detection and surveillance strategies, as well as selection of therapeutic targets, which can be used in BC, particularly in a neoadjuvant or adjuvant setting. This article outlines recent advances in the molecular pathology of BC with a better understanding and deeper focus on the development and deployment of promising biomarkers and therapeutic avenues that may soon make a transition into the domain of precision medicine and clinical management for patients with BC.

Automated summary

Bladder cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease with different histopathologic and molecular characteristics. Recent advances in understanding the molecular pathology of bladder cancer have led to the identification of promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets, which may improve disease classification, prognosis, and the development of noninvasive detection and surveillance strategies. These advancements may soon have a significant impact on precision medicine and clinical management for bladder cancer patients.