Urothelial susceptibility to neoplastic cellular implantation

Although it is frequently stated that one reason for postsurgical recurrence of transitional cell carcinoma is tumor cell implantation or ''seeding,'' there have been little objective data to support this theory. In the animal model used in this study normal and inflamed urothelium were exposed to a single cell suspension of a transitional cell tumor. The data clearly show that these neoplastic cells have the ability to adhere and establish tumor growth and that mucosal damage facilitates this process. It only remains to be determined how great a role this plays in man. Recurrent tumor development as a result of implantation might be preventable, and steps should be taken to limit its occurrence.