Prognostic Impact of Apoptosis Markers (Fas & FasL) in Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is a global health issue. In the endemic areas of Egypt, schistosomiasis is a leading cause of bladder cancer. Prognostic indicators are required to further identify which tumor should be treated aggressively early on, in order to improve surveillance. The Fas-Fas Ligand (Fas-FasL) system has been recognized as a major pathway for the induction of apoptosis in cells and tissues. Fas-mediated apoptosis is deeply involved in cancer cell death, brought about by the immune system. The interaction of Fas and Fas Ligand contributes to cytotoxic T-lymphocyte and natural killer-cell mediated cytotoxicity against cancer cells. This study was performed to assess the importance of the apoptosis markers (Fas and FasL) in bilharzial versus non-bilharzial bladder cancer, in order to detect the possible diagnostic &/or prognostic potentials of this factor.

Autorentext

Dr. Hazem Elmansy is an alumni of Cairo University (Theodor Bilharz Research Institue) in Egypt. As of 2008, he has been living in Montreal, Canada where he is currently completing his Urology residency at McGill University.