In a prospective SWOG S1823/GCC cohort study, researchers reported that microRNA 371a-3p can identify relapse risk in early-stage testicular cancer, though the clinical utility of the biomarker still appears limited. At ASCO, Lucia Nappi presented interim data indicating high specificity and negative predictive value for predicting recurrence. The study measured miR371 via real-time PCR in serial plasma samples after orchiectomy to categorize patients into low-, moderate- and high-risk relapse groups for stages I and IIa seminoma and nonseminoma. The low-risk cohort had an estimated 10% relapse risk, while moderate-risk participants showed about a 50% estimated risk. Investigators said current practice relies on active surveillance even for early disease, and additional validation is needed before miR371 can determine changes to management strategies.