Management of complications of bacillus Calmette-Guerin immunotherapy in the treatment of bladder cancer

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the management strategies available for the complica tions associated with bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) immunotherapy in the t reatment of bladder cancer. DATA SOURCES: Clinical literature accessed through MEDLINE (January 1983-Ja nuary 1999). Key search terms included bacillus Calmette-Guerin, BCG, and b ladder cancer. DATA SYNTHESIS: BCG vaccine is a live-attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bo vis; therefore, the risk for complications exists. An evaluation of treatme nt 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-ter m therapy. Therefore, healthcare practitioners need to be aware of the curr ent treatment regimens available.