BCG is used to stop the growth of bladder cancer and keep it from returning.
BCG is actually a vaccine made with a species of weakened mycobacterium, a group of tiny bacteria.
The bacteria used in the vaccine is related to the bacteria that causes tuberculosis.
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But in most people, it doesnt cause serious disease.
BCG treatments are administered as intravesical therapies.
This means the vaccine is administered into the bladder itself through a tube called a catheter.
Verywell / Alex Dos Diaz
Who Can Use BCG?
BCG is a treatment for early-stagebladder cancerthat has not yet invaded the muscle of the bladder wall.
Right before you go into the treatment room your doctor or nurse will have you empty your bladder.
Once the treatment is infused, your doctor or nurse will remove the catheter.
Theyll have you lie on your back, each side, and your stomach for 15 minutes each.
You will likely need multiple BCG treatments.
Youll likely also need atuberculosis testto confirm you dont have an active TB infection.
This complication is rare but can happen even years down the road.
Anktiva is FDA-approved for the treatment of adults with BCG-unresponsive NMIBC with carcinoma in situ (CIS).
Food and Drug Administration.Antiva label.
Summary
BCG treatment is a form of immunotherapy for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer.
It is administered into the bladder through a catheter.
It then activates the body’s immune system to attack the cancer cells.
A Word From Verywell
BCG treatment is well received and safe to take.
For many patients, it is effective in slowing cancer progression or stopping cancer from recurring.
Ask your doctor if you’re a good candidate for this treatment.
The vaccine is made with a species of weakened mycobacterium that activates the immune system.
In the vast majority of patients (90%), BCG stops bladder cancer from getting worse.
Two years after treatment, 60% of patients have not had their bladder cancer come back.
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