DNA aneuploidy and urothelial carcinoma: a meta-analysis

Background Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is regarded as the third most common cancer in adults, with a high incidence and mortality rate, and lacks specific tumor markers. With the advancement of technology, DNA ploidy analysis technology has become more convenient and efficient. Through meta-analysis of the correlation between DNA aneuploidy rate and UC prognosis, a more efficient UC prognosis indicator was discovered. Methods Through searching PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane Library database, we were able to identify the studies evaluating the prognostic value of DNA aneuploidy in UC. Results In all, 15 citations were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled results showed that DNA aneuploidy was significantly corrected with poor OS (HR = 4.32, 95% CI = 2.39-7.81, P < 0.001), poor DFS (HR = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.36-2.50, P < 0.001) and poor PFS (HR = 1.97, 95% CI = 1.37-2.83, P < 0.001) in UC patients. However, subgroup analysis revealed that DNA aneuploidy was associated with poor OS in Asian and American, but not in European. Correlation analysis of clinical pathological features suggested that DNA aneuploidy was related to the TNM stage, tumor grade, lymph node metastasis, tumor type and recurrence of UC. Conclusion Our meta-analysis showed the clinical value of DNA aneuploidy and its prognostic value in UC.