p53 expression was altered in 45% of cases, compared with 13–54% reported for pTa and pT1 bladder cancers in other series (Cordon-Cardo et al, 1997; Cote et al, 1998; Pfister et al, 1999; Sgambato et al, 1999; Korkolopoulou et al, 2000). This evidence concerns the gene TP53 and urinary bladder carcinoma.