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Induction of Invasive Transitional Cell Bladder Carcinoma in Immune Intact Human MUC1 Transgenic Mice: A Model for Immunotherapy Development
Published on: October 30, 2013
Bladder cancer: current optimal intravesical treatment
Donald L Lamm1, William R McGee, Kaye Hale
1BCG Oncology, PC, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
Abstract:
Superficial bladder cancer can be treated surgically, but patients are at high risk for recurrence. Tumors are categorized as low, intermediate, and high-risk based on grade, stage, and pattern of recurrence. Low-risk tumors are best treated with a single instillation of chemotherapy (thiotepa, doxorubicin, or mitomycin) (Lamm, 2002). Though effective, the toxicity of bacillus Calmette-Guerin immunotherapy (BCG) restricts its use to treat higher-grade tumors. Intermediate risk tumors can be treated with chemotherapy as well, but will often require immunotherapy. High-risk tumors are best treated with intravesical BCG using a 3-week maintenance schedule. Side effects of BCG immunotherapy can be decreased by logarithmic reductions in dose. Patients who fail BCG may be rescued with BCG plus interferon alfa or radical cystectomy.
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