BCG: confused

11 years 9 months ago #42271 by rbmc
Replied by rbmc on topic BCG: confused
Not frustrated. I look forward to anything that may help. My question of concern was the long time lapse to begin the BCG, and would it still be as effective? Doc's office said the 8 weeks delay should still work. Still no answers as to when BCG works the best, if there is such a time? Scheduled for next Friday, after the meds regime. Hope the sample indicates no infection, whatever it is I have.

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11 years 9 months ago #42270 by rbmc
Replied by rbmc on topic BCG: confused
Hi Sara.
I thought the first 6 BCG's helped. I'm not avoiding them, was more curious if the lengthy time span to start would still be as effective.

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11 years 9 months ago #42269 by CatherineH
Replied by CatherineH on topic BCG: confused
It's very easy to get frustrated with the 'hurry up and wait' approach to treatment. I do hope your infection clears up soon with the meds and you can get back on schedule and get those BCG treatments done and behind you.

Best wishes... Catherine

TURBT 1/21/10 at age 55
Dx: T2aN0M0 Primary Bladder Adenocarcinoma
Partial Cystectomy 2/25/10
Vanderbilt Medical Center
Nashville, TN

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11 years 9 months ago #42262 by sara.anne
Replied by sara.anne on topic BCG: confused
The "usual" recommended protocol for BCG is the initial series of six, and then a number of series of three,
usually every three months up to about 24 months. If
there is an infection present, as in your case, you must wait until that is cleared up before receiving BCG. Another reason they sometimes delay is if there is more than usual irritation in the bladder from the BCG.

I had the complete treatment, with multiple delays for such issues. My recommendation would be to "get this over with" and, as soon as possible, do the BCG. It can be life-saving, so give it a chance!

Sara Anne

Diagnosis 2-08 Small papillary TCC; CIS
BCG; BCG maintenance
Vice-President, American Bladder Cancer Society
Forum Moderator

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11 years 9 months ago #42261 by rbmc
BCG: confused was created by rbmc
Just a quickie update, the last cysto found another tumor which was removed, but the smallest so far. Doc recommended another round of BCG, but only 3, not the usual 6. That was put on hold because of the BCG shortage. Finally scheduled for treatment #1, they found an infection, so no treatment. Another delay to take some antibiotic. Doc called 4 days later, and increased the medication and dosage. Long story to confirm the mega dosage, and finally get the (expensive) pills. Hell, by the time I take these, then re-check the infection, I'll be about due for another cysto.
So my question is: how long should someone wait to receive BCG? My thoughts are that too much time has passed, and the BCG would not be as effective now? Should I just wait for the next cysto, and no treatment? If they find even a tiny tumor, they don't just fill you up with BCG hoping to kill it. The tumor is removed first. I have not seen anything regarding a time frame for the best use of BCG. Thanks.

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