Treatment FAQ

how long after bcg treatment can urine test produce abnormal results?

by Carrie Maggio Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Manifestations of disseminated infection may not develop for months or years after therapy as BCG may persist in the urinary tract for several months after treatment.

Full Answer

Is it normal to have blood in your urine after BCG?

 · Blood and tissue in your urine even weeks after your BCG treatment is very normal. The BCG stimulates your immune reaction in the bladder. That causes inflammation and bleeding. If it continues make sure that you tell your urologist. Hal Share Sharing discussion reply Blood in urine after BCG treatment Charlotte40 Share outside of Inspire

What is the role of urinalysis in the workup of BCG infection?

I am now in maintenance of 3 BCG treatments. Last week was my first BCG treatment in over 2 months. Within hours I started feeling the urgency to urinate constantly. Within 48 hours, I had every symptom listed above with the exception of the fever, so I naturally thought I was having BCG side effects. Urine tests revealed I had a UTI

Is it normal to have a cystoscopy after a BCG?

 · Bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) treatment can help prevent cancer from returning following surgery for early-stage bladder cancer. ... a person will need to hold their urine for around 2 hours ...

How long do chemical cystitis symptoms last after BCG?

 · Manifestations of disseminated infection may not develop for months or years after therapy as BCG may persist in the urinary tract for several months after treatment. …

How long does BCG bladder treatment stay in your system?

BCG is given directly into the bladder (called intravesicular) through a catheter. The medicine is left in the bladder for 1-2 hours. The dosage and schedule is determined by your healthcare provider. It is not uncommon to have urinary frequency (need to go often) or painful urination for 48 hours after treatment.

What are the chances of bladder cancer returning after BCG treatment?

“Initially, it's effective,” says medical oncologist Noah Hahn, M.D. However, adds urologist Max Kates, M.D., “while up to 35 percent of patients have long-term, sustained remissions with intravesical BCG, as many as 60 percent of patients will have a recurrence of cancer within two years.

Does abnormal urine FISH test always indicate bladder cancer?

FISH detected 95% of cases with high-grade carcinoma, while cytology detected 41% of such cases. FISH yielded an overall specificity of 65%, compared to 93% with cytology. These researchers recommended FISH as a useful initial diagnostic tool in patients suspected of both new and recurrent bladder cancer.

How long after a BCG do you get a cystoscopy?

Abstract. The standard of practice set by the SWOG investigation of BCG therapy for superficial bladder cancer has been to evaluate response at 3 months with cystoscopy and bladder biopsy.

How successful is BCG for bladder cancer?

This method of treatment is considered a form of immunotherapy, which is an emerging form of cancer treatment. The success rate for BCG treatment for bladder cancer is about 90%, which is considered the best life-saving rate by any treatment.

How many times can you have BCG treatments for bladder cancer?

BCG is in a liquid solution that is put into the bladder with a catheter. The person then holds the solution in the bladder for two hours before urinating. The treatment is usually given once per week for six weeks, starting approximately two to three weeks after the last TURBT.

What causes white blood cells in urine but no infection?

The following can also cause raised levels of leukocytes in the urine: some cancers, such as prostate, bladder, or kidney cancer. blood diseases such as sickle cell anemia. some pain relieving medicines.

What are the warning signs of bladder cancer?

Bladder Cancer: Symptoms and SignsBlood or blood clots in the urine.Pain or burning sensation during urination.Frequent urination.Feeling the need to urinate many times throughout the night.Feeling the need to urinate, but not being able to pass urine.Lower back pain on 1 side of the body.

What is usually the first symptom of bladder cancer?

In most cases, blood in the urine (called hematuria) is the first sign of bladder cancer. There may be enough blood to change the color of the urine to orange, pink, or, less often, dark red.

What happens if BCG treatment doesn't work?

BCG failure usually carries a risk of recurrence but rarely of progression. For low-grade failure, intravesical chemotherapy is a valid option. This scenario is different from that where BCG intravesical therapy is unsuccessful in high-risk T1 disease and/or CIS, where a risk of progression may sometimes reach 50%.

How many times can you have a cystoscopy?

You may have a cystoscopy at 3, 9 and 18 months after treatment. After that you may have a cystoscopy once every year for up to 5 years after treatment. Then you might not need to see your doctor again.

Can BCG treatment damage the bladder?

As a result of the intended immune stimulation and cytokine production, minor symptoms following BCG administration are common and usually manageable. These adverse effects include fever, malaise, and bladder irritation (urination frequency, dysuria, or mild hematuria).

BCG side effects mimicking a urinary tract infection

The common theme here is that BCG side effects may mimic an Urinary Tract Infection . But the question is, how do you know?

Urine tests revealed I had a UTI

When I arrived at my urologist office for my second BCG, the first thing I always do is provide a urine sample at which time they informed me I have some sort of Urinary Tract Infection, they would cancel today's BCG and send urine out for culture.

Pay attention to your body during treatments

The lesson learned with this experience was to pay very close attention to your body. Everyone diagnosed with cancer will have some type of mild to moderate side effects and you need to be extremely vigilant about how you feel.

Kidney and Ureter Tumors - Deciding About Cystectomy

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The BladderCancer.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

How long does it take for a BCG to show symptoms?

Some people may experience flu-like symptoms for a few days after having BCG therapy.

How long do you have to hold your urine for BCG?

During the treatment, a person will need to hold their urine for around 2 hours. After this, the healthcare professional will ask the individual to empty their bladder. The BCG drug contains live bacteria that a person can pass to other people.

What is the treatment for bladder cancer?

Bacillus Calmette–Guerin is a form of immunotherapy that doctors can use to treat some forms of bladder cancer. Following surgery to remove the cancer, this treatment can help prevent the cancer from returning.

How long do you have to hold your urine before you empty your bladder?

A person will then need to hold their urine for 2 hours before emptying their bladder. BCG is a type of bacterium. For several hours following the procedure, a person will need to take precautions when urinating to prevent passing the bacterium to other people.

How long can you live with stage 1 bladder cancer?

as likely as people without it to live for at least 5 years following diagnosis. Doctors typically use BCG immunotherapy to treat stage 0 and stage 1 bladder cancer. The 5-year relative survival rate for people with stage 0 bladder cancer is 95.4 percent. Trusted Source.

How to flush BCG from bladder?

drinking plenty of liquids to help flush the BCG from the bladder

Why do you drink liquid after BCG?

It is vital to drink plenty of liquid after treatment to help flush the BCG from the bladder.

In Summary

Commonly reported side effects of bcg include: urinary tract infection, detrusor hyperreflexia of bladder, fever, hematuria, urinary frequency, urinary urgency, vomiting, chills, and malaise. Other side effects include: arthralgia. See below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects.

For the Consumer

Bacillus of Calmette and Guérin (BCG) infections have been reported in health care workers and in patients because of exposure to the vaccine during preparation and administration. Serious and fatal disseminated BCG infections have occurred with intravesical administration.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to bcg: intravesical powder for reconstitution, percutaneous powder for injection

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment

Just trying to see if anyone else has had the same experience. Recently finished my second 'maintenance' treatment after being passed 'clear' following the main 6 treatments. So really good news but the aftereffects (if thats what they are?) seem to be lasting much longer than previously.

aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment

hello Dave, so you have , completed 9 BCG treatments, yes i would agree , the side effects do increase, i have just completed my twelvth . I found that the first 6 were ok ish but ,were feeling just a little more aggresive by number 6.

aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment

Hi James Thanks for that. l am beginning to realise that l may be getting off quite lightly having spoken to my BCG team. Things have improved a bit and l am hoping that l may have only one more maintenance treatment to come. You are absolutely correct about diet and keeping reasonably fit it really does help.

aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment

I have just seen this as had not visited Cancer Research previously & found the comments & experiences of great interest.

aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment

Hi. My first post. I have just had my cystoscopy following my 12th BCG treatment. I agree with others that the first 6 are a breeze, the second 3 more painfull, and the last 3 very painfull and drawn out. I asked for an extra weeks break between 11 and 12 to recover.

aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment

Hello dickie - I just had my 10th dose of BCG 4 days ago & no problems so far re. side effects. That is quite a relief after the last time, but as I have 2 more doses to go I will wait & see with fingers crossed. Apparently, according to my consultant & keyworker these effects vary greatly from person to person & also in severity.

aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment

Nice to hear you guys are going strong , I have not posted for a while.

How long after BCG treatment can you have sex?

Men can pass BCG to their partner during sex. For that reason, you should avoid sex for 48 hours after each treatment. Use a condom between treatments and for six weeks following your final treatment. Women should avoid getting pregnant or breastfeeding while on BCG therapy.

How does a BCG catheter work?

A urinary catheter is inserted through your urethra and into your bladder. Then the BCG solution is injected into the catheter. The catheter is clamped off so the solution stays in your bladder. Some doctors may remove the catheter at this time. You have to hold the medicine in your bladder.

What are the complications of a syringe infection?

Serious complications of this infection include inflammation of the lungs, hepatitis, and inflammation of the prostate and testicles. If you have any sign of serious infection, seek immediate medical attention.

How to get rid of BCG in men?

Disinfect the urine by adding 2 cups of bleach into the toilet. Let it stand for about 20 minutes before flushing. You should also wash your genital area very carefully after you urinate, so your skin doesn’t become irritated from the BCG. Wash your hands thoroughly, too. Men can pass BCG to their partner during sex.

What to do before BCG?

Tell your doctor about all the medications you take. Certain immunosuppressants, antimicrobial therapies, and radiation therapies can interfere with BCG treatment. You’ll be advised to limit your fluid intake for four hours prior to ...

What is the survival rate for stage 1 bladder cancer?

Based on records from 2007 to 2013, the five-year relative survival rates were 95.7 percent for stage 0 bladder cancer and 70.1 percent for stage 1 bladder cancer.

How long does it take for a bladder catheter to unclamp?

You’ll be instructed to lie on your back and to roll from side to side to make sure the solution reaches your entire bladder. After about two hours, the catheter is unclamped so the fluid can be drained. If the catheter was already removed, you’ll be asked to empty your bladder at this time.

How long does a BCG stay in the bladder?

Any urine remaining in the bladder will be drained and then a BCG solution will be inserted into the bladder next to the tumor and should remain for two hours. The catheter is normally removed after the BCG is placed into the bladder, and patients can get up and walk around during the waiting time.

How long does it take to get a BCG removed?

1,2 It is generally not considered a painful procedure, though some may find it uncomfortable. Any urine remaining in the bladder will be drained and then a BCG solution will be inserted into the bladder next to the tumor and should remain for two hours. The catheter is normally removed after the BCG is placed into the bladder, and patients can get up and walk around during the waiting time. If the catheter is not removed for some reason, it is clamped to keep the BCG in the bladder. Patients are asked not to urinate for the two hours waiting time. Most people can travel independently to the doctor for the procedure, but it may be helpful to have another person accompany you to help pass the time.

Can you urinate after a BCG catheter is removed?

If the catheter is not removed for some reason, it is clamped to keep the BCG in the bladder. Patients are asked not to urinate for the two hours waiting time. Most people can travel independently to the doctor for the procedure, but it may be helpful to have another person accompany you to help pass the time.

Can you drink fluids after a BCG?

After the BCG is drained from the bladder, patients can resume drinking fluids normally. Because BCG is a live vaccine, there are some important safety measures to keep in mind that your doctor can explain.

How long after BCG treatment can complications occur?

Severe complications are rare ( 26) and can occur during or several years after treatment.

How long does a BCG infection last?

Urinalysis and urine cultures do not yield evidence of infection. Symptoms usually last 1–2 days; however, the degree and duration of symptoms tend to increase with subsequent BCG instillations. Chemical cystitis must be distinguished from bacterial cystitis, which shows evidence of infection at urinalysis and/or in urine cultures and requires treatment with antibiotics. Bladder contracture is a more long-term complication but is extremely rare.

How long does epididymo orchitis last after BCG?

BCG-related epididymo-orchitis is rare, occurring in fewer than 1% of cases of complications associated with BCG treatment, and reportedly may manifest as long as 10 years after the final intravesical BCG instillation ( 26, 40 ). The causal mechanism is considered to be prostatic urethro-ejaculatory duct reflux.

How long does cystitis last?

Symptoms usually last 1–2 days; however, the degree and duration of symptoms tend to increase with subsequent BCG instillations. Chemical cystitis must be distinguished from bacterial cystitis, which shows evidence of infection at urinalysis and/or in urine cultures and requires treatment with antibiotics.

Is fever a side effect of BCG?

Fever indicates adequate immune activation and is associated with a more favorable antitumor response ( 25 ). Skin rash and arthralgia are possible allergic reactions ( 26, 27 ). These mild symptoms are usually self-limited and last only a few days. In a study ( 21) involving 1316 patients treated with intravesical BCG, 62.8% of patients reported having local side effects, and 30.6% of patients reported having systemic side effects. Although a one-third dose of BCG remains an effective treatment, there is conflicting evidence as to whether this dose is associated with significantly reduced side effects ( 21, 28 ).

How many people died from bladder cancer in 2017?

Bladder Cancer. Bladder cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the United States, with 79 000 new cases and 17 000 deaths reported in 2017 ( 14 ). The mean patient age at diagnosis is 65 years ( 1 ), and the incidence is about 3.3 times higher in men than in women ( 14 ).

When was the antitumor effect of tuberculosis first discovered?

The antitumor effect of tuberculosis was suspected as early as 1929 when the results of an autopsy study ( 5) indicated a lower frequency of cancer in patients with tuberculosis and a higher incidence of active or healed tuberculosis among cancer survivors. In 1936, Holmgren ( 6) published his anecdotal experience using intravenous, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, and intralesional BCG to treat patients with cancer. The first direct evidence of the antitumor effect of BCG was described in an animal model in 1959 ( 7 ).

How long does a recurrence-free survival last?

The mean recurrence-free survival times were significantly longer in the inflammation and granuloma groups than the normal histology group (56 and 65 months, respectively, vs. 20 months). The mean progression-free survival times were significantly longer in the inflammation and granuloma groups than the normal histology group (82 and 75 months, respectively, vs. 33 months).

Is granuloma associated with recurrence?

The absence of inflammation or granuloma was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of recurrence in multivariate analysis.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9