BCG therapy uses cancer-targeting drugs delivered directly to your bladder through a catheter under your healthcare provider’s supervision. Unlike oral or injectable medications, BCG therapy targets cancer cells inside your bladder without hurting the rest of your body. BCG treatment is the leading immunotherapy used to treat early-stage bladder cancer.
What is BCG Treatment?
Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) treatment is an intravesical immunotherapy or a liquid drug from Mycobacterium Bovis is the same bacterium used to create the tuberculosis vaccine. Mycobacterium Bovis, related to tuberculosis, is weakened so that it can be safely given to you during vaccinations. This treatment is usually given after TURBT (transurethral resection of bladder tumour).
What Goes Down During the BCG Treatment?
Before beginning BCG treatment, your health provider will numb the area where BCG will be inserted. Your healthcare provider will inject the BCG antibiotic, remove the catheter and then ask that you lie on your back, belly and sides for 15 minutes each. After this process is complete, you can leave the appointment. However, it is essential that you avoid urinating or spilling any urine within one hour of the injection. The purpose of this waiting period is to allow the BCG solution time enough to reach all cancer cells in your urinary tract. When you’re finished holding your urine, peeing as soon as possible afterwards will maximize its effectiveness against bladder cancer. You’ll be able to pee later!
What’s the Major Benefit of BCG Treatment?
In some cases, BCG treatment can be performed with transurethral resection of the bladder tumour (TURBT). BCG cancer treatment might slow the growth of tumours and reduce the need for cystectomy in the future.
Some Side Effects Which You Should Know
Some side effects may include:
A little blood in your urine.
Low-grade fever.
Lethargy.
A burning sensation while urinating.
Frequent urination.
Joint and muscle pain.
Recovery After a BCG Session
Most BCG treatment side effects should wear off in about two to three days. But if your symptoms are severe or last more than 72 hours, call your doctor for advice. Most people can usually return to work or school within one to two days of their BCG treatments. However, everyone’s experience is different. Your healthcare provider can help you determine what’s right for you in terms of returning home after the treatment.
Conclusion
BCG cancer treatment is the accepted approach for people with early-stage bladder cancer. If you were diagnosed with bladder cancer, it’s important to discuss your course of treatment with your healthcare provider. Learning about possible treatments beforehand from any best oncologist will help you make an informed decision about your health.
If you want to know more BCG treatment, there are hospitals like HCG which have the best oncologist treatment options. Be sure to look them up.
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