Prognostic and predictive value of epigenetic biomarkers and clinical factors in upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Aim: We conducted this study to identify gene promoter methylation status and clinical predictors for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) patients. Materials & methods: Using methylation-sensitive PCR, we examined ten genes promoter methylation status in 687 UTUC patients. Results: A methylated promoter of three genes to predict higher tumor stage (T3 and T4), five genes to predict higher tumor grade (G3) and one gene to predict pN+ were certified in this study. Nine factors were significantly associated with poor cancer-specific survival. Six factors were considered as predictors to develop bladder recurrence after surgery. Conclusion: Methylation occurs commonly in UTUCs, may affect carcinogenic mechanisms, and is a well predictive factor for cancer-specific survival and bladder recurrence in UTUCs.