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Maintenance BCG Treatments
How does this fit in the treatment plan?
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HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Bladder Cancer Support Group.
How does this fit in the treatment plan?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Bladder Cancer Support Group.
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In my husband's case, after 6 treatments of BCG into the bladder each week, he transitioned to every 3 months. Unfortunately he was a BCG failure as he had recurrence during the maintenance phase. He had a highly aggressive UTC. I am not sure how long a maintenance phase would last if you remain free of cancer and side effects/
What is the determining factor before ordering Maintenance BCG
I have High Grade Non Invasive.
What do you consider side effects,please explain.
What is the determining factor for ordering maintenance BCG? That sounds like a question for your urologist or oncologist. I am not a human doctor and can only relate our experiences as a patient or caregiver.
As to side effects, all my husband experienced was a brief 1-2 day period of bladder irritation right after the instillation. On this forum I have seen others complain of UTIs, blood in urine, bladder pain, and systemic effects like fever, muscle aches and cough. Because it works as an immunotherapy there is the potential for other side effects like with other immunotherapies. You can research this online or ask your doctor about the potential for side effects. It is always good to know what to expect when starting a new treatment.