Communities›In Treatment For Bladder Cancer›Does BCG immunotherapy work for recurring bladder cancer?

Does BCG immunotherapy work for recurring bladder cancer?

DA

Community Member

3 months ago

I have non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer that has come back, and my doctor recommended BCG immunotherapy. From what I understand, this treatment goes directly into the bladder through a catheter to help my immune system fight the cancer cells. They mentioned it might be combined with Imfinzi (durvalumab) in some cases to strengthen the immune response. I'd love to connect with others who have been through similar treatment and hear about your experiences. • What was the BCG treatment process like for you day to day? • What advice would you give someone starting this treatment for recurring bladder cancer?

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7 comments
Comment
CA

Community Member

2 months ago

BCG immunotherapy has shown effectiveness for many people with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, and it's encouraging that you're exploring treatment options with your medical team. The combination approach with immunotherapy agents like durvalumab represents an evolving area of bladder cancer treatment that aims to enhance the body's natural defenses against cancer cells. Connecting with others who have navigated similar treatment paths can provide valuable insights and emotional support during this journey. The community here includes many members who have experience with BCG therapy and can share practical tips about managing the treatment schedule and what to expect during the process.

SC

Community Member

2 months ago

I had non-muscular bladder cancer. Tried BCG. Didn’t work and now it’s in stage two in the muscle. Going to get Chemo and radiation next month. Pray it works. Don’t know what to expect.

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EM

Community Member

2 months ago

I have the same thing. Just finished my 3rd series of BCG. All clear so far on the cancer. Got to it early. A little blood after the treatments for about 3-4 hours. Then it clears up. Get a little tired after and sometimes the next day. Do not like that everything is done though a catheter but it beats the alternative. My Dr told me t 1 aggressive is a lifetime surveillance. Sucks but that is life

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DA

Community Member

a month ago

David, How long do your treatments generally last, and how many has your doctor scheduled for you? My urologist scheduled me for 18 infusions, and I am about two thirds done. Early on, he switched me over to Mitomycin. Once the medicine has been introduced, the catheter is removed. That eases some of the discomfort. And if the catheter is slowly removed, my bladder becomes less agitated. A successful treatment lasts an hour. Unfortunately, if my bladder spasms a lot, I uncontrollably empty everything out. The result is a failed treatment. Thus far, however, I have been in remission for 9 months. Are you experiencing any side effects like considerable fatigue or rashes that itch a lot?

VB

Community Member

14 days ago

I've got it & it works for me,& my neighbor

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KE

Community Member

4 days ago

Been through 3 rounds. 6 first time a week apart. Then a month later a scope. (Looked good), then 3 rounds about a month after, and repeat, cysto, and then 3 more weeks of treatment. Sluggish after the 2nd one each time and seems to multiply or get a little worse with each one. Seems to just zap me afterwards, just that day and night. Seems better the day after. So far so good though so I am OK with them. It beats the alternative. I think I have a good tech and that helps. Had one have to sit In for her when she'd been out. She was rough, thankfully she isn't there anymore. Wishing you success

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VB

Community Member

4 days ago

Do it. It worked for me. And my neighbor

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