Confusing statistics?

Chris, maybe I've got the grading wrong. I've got another cystoscope (my 3 mo. follow up) next Wednesday, so I'll double check. The doctor didn't seem worried at all so maybe I'm mistaken about the grade. Maybe it was T1G1? I know it wasn't TaG1; there was something elevated.
I'll let you know.
Bob P

Hmmmm, Bob I would seriously get a second opinion about not getting BCG for a T1G2. Maybe your doc knows what he is talking about, but?

I would at least look into the "induction" 6-weekly treatments of BCG. Get a second and third opinion. Generally your tumor would fall in the "Intermediate" risk zone, I would prefer conservative overtreatment than undertreatment. Your doctor may be waiting for a recurrance before bumping you up to the "High risk category" and advising BCG.


Low ( TaG1, T1G1 unique)

Intermediate (T1G1 multiple, TaG2,T1G2 unique)

High (T1G2 multiple, G3, +Tis)

Yes, it was interesting but they seem to be talking about G3 with BCG treatment. My dr. didn't recommed BCG since it was only T1G2.
That part about 40% of T1 diagnosis being understaged and muscle invasive was a little scary. But maybe, again, that is G3 not G1 or G2?

Excellent article Wendy - Thank you! - As Bob can see for this study, the long term outcomes for T1G3 was like 80% (10 year - progression free) - probably even better long-term odds for a T1G2.

I had my first follow-up from my surgery with Dr. Stein at USC/Norris last week, and I asked him point-black what chance my cancer had of popping up again in the next five years. The American Cancer Society has pretty grim numbers for my situation--T3aN1M0.

Dr. Stein said 50%, which are much better odds than the ACS.

When I asked him why there was such a difference, he said that, quite frankly, they get better results at Norris.

Which is a pretty good reason to choose the best hospital and surgeon you can find.

Plus, and this is no small plus, Dr. Stein is a great person as well as an amazing surgeon. I couldn't be more fortunate that my urologist here in Santa Barbara recommended him.

Thanks Christopher and Wendy. and I'll check out that article Wendy.
Bob P