The use of ctDNA for muscle-invasive bladder cancer before and after radical cystectomy

INTRODUCTION: Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is an aggressive malignancy with high recurrence rates despite standard treatment with radical cystectomy with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Conventional imaging and histopathology have limited ability to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) or predict treatment response. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), has emerged as a promising noninvasive biomarker for dynamic tumor monitoring and risk stratification. AREAS COVERED: This review explores the current and emerging applications of ctDNA in MIBC, including its use in neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings, MRD detection, surveillance, and treatment guidance. Key clinical trials, such as IMvigor010/011, ABACUS, NABUCCO, TOMBOLA, MODERN, and VOLGA are discussed, highlighting the prognostic and predictive value of ctDNA across disease stages. Technical and biological limitations are examined, along with challenges related to standardization, cost, and clinical integration. EXPERT OPINION: ctDNA is poised to transform the perioperative management of MIBC by enabling precision-guided treatment decisions. ctDNA assays offer high sensitivity for MRD detection and early relapse prediction. While not yet part of routine clinical practice, ongoing studies will determine whether ctDNA-guided interventions improve patient outcomes. With continued advancements in assay sensitivity, bioinformatics, and integration with radiomic and genomic data, ctDNA is expected to become a cornerstone in the treatment of urothelial carcinoma.