Diagnosed in January 2017

Hi seeking some advice on the next steps:

In my 1st Cysto after 6 BCG on Nov 14th, my doctor told me (in his notes): "Circumferential inspection of the bladder revealed a small raised lesion on the right lateral wall at the resection scar less than a half centimeter in size". He suggested a biopsy in late Nov.

I just got a phone call from him informing me that the biopsy did find some cancer cells. He also told me that it was remaining T1 HG.

I am going to discuss with my doctor in details next week. Has anyone had similar experience? Shall I just go get another TURBT? Or should I seek any other alternative treatments, or possibly continuing BCG?
If the cancer cells were found from the scar, does it mean that BCG is not working or the previous TURBT didnot go deep enough?

Thanks!

CLTYXX

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Diagnosed on 03/23/2017
TURBT#1 04/06/2017, Pathology report not conclusive
TURBT#2 05/26/2017, HG T1, No cancer found
BCG 6 treatments finished on 08/11/2017
Cysto: 11/14/2017
Biopsy: 11/27/2017

Thank you Heather. This is all still fairly new to me and it helps to know I'm not alone in this fight. It also helps me not to over-react. Thanks again and am so glad you've had a successful diagnosis!

Hi dlh! Hang in there. What you were told is very similar to what I was told a year ago when they found my tumor. They removed it, I did BCG, had a cystoscopy, they found more, removed those, had more BCG and this last cystoscopy showed no evidence of disease. Finally! I too had high grade, and that can reappear, that's why we're checked so often. If they catch it early enough, before it goes into the muscle layer, then we can keep our bladders. It's an inconvenience and an anxiety ridden event each time, but it's worth it.

DLH,

The following file offers a good, clear understanding of cancer staging (and grade).

www.cancer.net/cancer-types/bladder-cancer/stages-and-grades

I would first assume that the "early" scope is the doctor being cautious; he is looking for an early return of the cancer. Do ask the doctor about this at your next appointment.

A follow up plan of frequent scoping is the standard screening for a return of bladder cancer; the rate of return of bladder cancer is significant, more so for a high grade cancer. It seems to me that your plan is normal.

My thought is - If there is any doubt or unanswered question about MY treatment, a second opinion is in order. Prepare a list of questions and concerns for your next appointment. Hopefully your doc will have answers for all.

Best,
Jack