UroAmp: A New Predictive Tool for Bladder Cancer

Convergent Genomics has developed a urine test called UroAmp for bladder cancer. UroAmp can give doctors detailed genetic information about bladder cancer from a urine sample.¹

What is UroAmp?

UroAmp is a new type of urine test. This test gives detailed information about the DNA in a urine sample. This genetic information can be used to detect bladder cancer. UroAmp is more accurate than cytology and tumor marker tests.^1,2

Like a fingerprint, the genetic profile of every bladder cancer is different. Based on this profile, UroAmp can predict if the detected cancer is high-grade or low-grade. Certain genetic changes are linked to poor treatment response and an increased risk of cancer spreading.²

UroAmp gives doctors information that can help them find the best treatment and monitoring plan for each specific case of bladder cancer.²

How is UroAmp used?

Doctors can use UroAmp throughout the course of bladder cancer. This means UroAmp can be used for:²

• Diagnosing bladder cancer
• Guiding treatment decisions
• Monitoring for recurrence

Diagnosis

Data suggest UroAmp can help doctors diagnose bladder cancer early. UroAmp may detect bladder cancer years before it would cause symptoms or be detected by cystoscopy. Earlier diagnosis could improve outcomes and save lives.^1,2

Treatment

UroAmp can spot specific genetic changes linked to more aggressive cancers. It may also predict treatment failure. UroAmp can spot genetic changes that predict which treatments are more likely to work for each person.^1,2

Monitoring

Finally, doctors can better predict cancer recurrence using UroAmp. They can do this by tracking urine samples over time. People with bladder cancer often have cystoscopy every 3 to 6 months for several years to monitor the cancer. These frequent invasive procedures are tough and costly for patients. UroAmp has the potential to reduce the need for cystoscopy.^1,2

Data from a 2022 study showed the benefits of using UroAmp throughout the course of bladder cancer, including:²

• At the time of diagnosis to profile bladder cancer before removal
• After cancer removal to detect residual cancer and guide additional treatment
• During monitoring after surgery to monitor for recurrence
• During a course of intravesical therapy (IVT) with BCG to monitor treatment effectiveness

How is bladder cancer currently diagnosed?

No good screening tests for bladder cancer currently exist. The first sign of bladder cancer is often blood in the urine. A urine test (urinalysis) is often the first step in diagnosis. Cells in the urine can be looked at under a microscope. This is called cytology.³

Doctors can also use a camera to look inside the bladder. This procedure is called cystoscopy. During cystoscopy, the doctor can take a tissue sample. Then, they can look at this tissue sample in the lab to find abnormal cells.⁴

Other tests can be used to assess bladder cancer. But these tests can miss some bladder cancers. These tests include:⁴

• Special X-rays of the bladder and kidneys
• Imaging tests called CT scans
• Urine tumor marker tests

UroAmp may provide a better way to diagnose, monitor, and possibly screen for bladder cancer.²

If you have been diagnosed with bladder cancer or think you are at high risk, talk to your doctor to find out if UroAmp can help you.