T C Huang1. 1. College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA. pha.tch@lpch.stanford.edu
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the management strategies available for the complications associated with bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) immunotherapy in the treatment of bladder cancer. DATA SOURCES: Clinical literature accessed through MEDLINE (January 1983-January 1999). Key search terms included bacillus Calmette-Guérin, BCG, and bladder cancer. DATA SYNTHESIS: BCG vaccine is a live-attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bovis; therefore, the risk for complications exists. An evaluation of treatment regimens was conducted, and the management strategies are presented. CONCLUSIONS: The complications associated with BCG immunotherapy range from local reactions to potentially fatal systemic reactions requiring long-term therapy. Therefore, healthcare practitioners need to be aware of the current treatment regimens available.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the management strategies available for the complications associated with bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) immunotherapy in the treatment of bladder cancer. DATA SOURCES: Clinical literature accessed through MEDLINE (January 1983-January 1999). Key search terms included bacillus Calmette-Guérin, BCG, and bladder cancer. DATA SYNTHESIS: BCG vaccine is a live-attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bovis; therefore, the risk for complications exists. An evaluation of treatment regimens was conducted, and the management strategies are presented. CONCLUSIONS: The complications associated with BCG immunotherapy range from local reactions to potentially fatal systemic reactions requiring long-term therapy. Therefore, healthcare practitioners need to be aware of the current treatment regimens available.