IS THERE A ROLE FOR IN-VIVO METHYLENE-BLUE STAINING IN THE PREDICTIONOF BLADDER-TUMOR RECURRENCE

Objective To assess the role of in vivo staining with intravesical met hylene blue in predicting tumour recurrence. Patients and Methods Thir ty-nine patients (27 men and 12 women, age range 43-75 years) newly di agnosed with bladder tumours were prospectively studied and followed f or a minimum of 2 years. Potential biopsy sites were identified by sta ining intravesically with a 1% methylene blue solution and compared wi th random biopsy sites. Results Biopsy directed by methylene blue stai ning detected carcinoma in situ more often than random biopsy. Rates o f recurrence were similar in both stained and unstained groups. Conclu sion Methylene blue staining does not add significantly to the managem ent of patients presenting with bladder tumours.