Analysis of local and systemic side effects of bacillus Calmette-Guerin immunotherapy in bladder cancer: a retrospective study in Turkiye.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Bladder cancer is a growing health concern, especially in developing countries like Türkiye. Intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy is essential for reducing recurrence and progression in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). However, it can cause local and systemic adverse effects linked to bacterial virulence, allergic reactions, or nosocomial infections. Data from randomized studies on BCG side effects are limited, with severe cases often reported in case studies. This study investigates the association between intravesical BCG immunotherapy and its adverse effects.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 239 patients who underwent BCG immunotherapy between 2017 and 2024. Detailed demographic, clinical, and laboratory data wer

SUBMITTER: Akbulut I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11829628 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature