BCG with Low Grade

I had a very large bladder tumor (required 2 TURBs to remove), and am half way through my first cycle of BCG (not as bad as I thought it would be). My pathology report noted that though 95% was low grade, I had focal high grade features as well which can indicate higher chance for recurrence. I'm also 37, there might have been the instinct to do anything so I can keep my bladder. It's a conversation between you and your doctor because there are so many factors that go into recommending a treatment. Good luck.

Heather
Diagnosed 5/25/2016
First cysto and TURBT 5/23/2016
Nephrostomy placement 5/24/2016
Second cysto and TURBT 6/20/2016
Papillary urothelial carcinoma, mostly low grade
No stromal invasion, no metastasis
Original tumor size (by CT): 7.3 cm x 4.8 cm x 4.8 cm
Starting BCG 8/21/2016

Win55,

The following provides an opinion about treatment based on a "risk of recurrence" as well as invasive v non-invasive.

Bladder cancer treatment; non-muscle invasive (superficial) cancer Michael O'Donnell MD
O'Donnell describes three levels of " risk of recurrence" in the section titled " ADJUVANT BLADDER CANCER THERAPY".

www.uptodate.com/contents/bladder-cancer-treatment-non-muscle-invasive-superficial-cancer-beyond-the-basics

This may may provide you some insight, about which you can ask your doctor.

Best
Jack

Note: The author is well known; the website is an unknown to me.

I have been told that low grade bladder cancer does not respond well to BCG treatments and is not necessary even if it is recurrent. I know a lot of patients with low grade cancer receive BCG though and I have as well. Anyone know why some doctors treat low grade cancer with BCG and some don't? I have searched the internet and can't find much info on the subject.