BCG, or Bacillus Calmette-Guérin, is a widely used immunotherapy for the prevention of recurrent bladder cancer. In this context, BCG is not a vaccine but rather a treatment that harnesses the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. BCG therapy involves the use of a weakened strain of the Mycobacterium bovis bacterium, which is related to the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis. When BCG is instilled directly into the bladder, it stimulates an immune response within the urinary tract, enhancing the body's ability to recognize and attack cancer cells. BCG therapy is primarily used for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, particularly high-risk cases, to reduce the chances of cancer recurrence and progression.
BCG therapy has been a significant advancement in the management of recurrent bladder cancer, as it can help reduce the likelihood of cancer returning and progressing to a more invasive stage. However, the treatment may have side effects, such as urinary symptoms, fever, and fatigue, which should be closely monitored by healthcare professionals during the course of therapy. Join us this Saturday as Lais Heideman, BSN, RN, CURN reviews the skills necessary to administer BCG.
*The information provided on the site is for educational purposes only, and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.
