Abstract
The distribution of tissue polypeptide antigen (TPA), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) and various cytokeratins was studied with immunohistochemical techniques in malignant, normal and inflamed urothelium. TPA and cytokeratins 8, 18 and 19 were similarly distributed and there was no difference between benign and malignant conditions. All keratins were most abundant in the outer cell layers of the urothelium. EMA was present primarily in the so called umbrella cells. Increased levels of TPA in urine and serum are found in patients with urothelial carcinoma. TPA is reported to be related to the cytoskeletal keratins and its presence definitely does not imply malignant transformation as we have demonstrated it in both benign and malignant urothelium. The increased levels of TPA in urine and serum are probably due to a more rapid turnover and autolysis of cells and may parallel a more aggressive tumor behaviour.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
