Abstract
The evolution of the local inflammatory response after conclusion of BCG endovesical prophylactic treatment of superficial bladder cancer recurrences was evaluated in 12 patients. Microscopic specimens obtained during follow-up cystoscopy were examined using an immunohistochemical technique. After suspension of BCG treatment (as well as during treatment) the phlogistic pattern is mainly represented by T-lymphocytes and particularly by the helper/inducer phenotype. No difference in the lymphocyte phenotype was observed between patients who responded and did not respond to BCG. In more than 50% of responders (but never in non-responders) aggregations of immunocompetent cells were observed, the role of which, although needing a larger series of observations, may be of some importance in preventing cancer recurrences.
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