naive question

3 years 2 months ago #60511 by sara.anne
Replied by sara.anne on topic naive question
If it is immunotherapy for non-invasive bladder cancer (BCG for example)  it is infused into the bladder in the urologist’s office.  If it is immunotherapy for more advanced bladder cancer, it is done under the direction of an oncologist.  

Diagnosis 2-08 Small papillary TCC; CIS
BCG; BCG maintenance
Vice-President, American Bladder Cancer Society
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3 years 2 months ago #60508 by readabook
Replied by readabook on topic naive question
thank-you! Second part: Is immunotherapy usually administered by oncologist or urologist?
My dad is going to oncology suite- though his past urologist wanted to put something directly into his bladder. I don't want to make him anxious- but I am curious!

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3 years 2 months ago #60507 by sara.anne
Replied by sara.anne on topic naive question
Perfectly understandable that there is confusion.  IF you are talking about immunotherapy for high grade or recurring non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, such as BCG or mitomycin,, it is instilled into the bladder via a catheter.

IF you are discussing some of the newest immunotherapy drugs for metastatic bladder cancer, such as Ketruda, these are given as iv infusions just like chemotherapy.

sara Anne

Diagnosis 2-08 Small papillary TCC; CIS
BCG; BCG maintenance
Vice-President, American Bladder Cancer Society
Forum Moderator
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3 years 2 months ago #60506 by readabook
naive question was created by readabook
I am sorry I don't know this but I feel like I have heard both- Is immunotherapy for bladder cancer administered directly into bladder via a catheter, or is introduced via an IV? 
Thanks!

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