Management of Complications of Bacillus Calmette–Guérin Immunotherapy in the Treatment of Bladder Cancer

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the management strategies available for the complications associated with bacillus Calmette–Guérin (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.