I can't believe it is T3, those options are definitely not NICE guidelines for T3. Options would normally be Chemo + radiotherapy or Chemo + surgery. BCG is immunotherapy direct into the bladder, the chemo would be intravenous.
Did they say it has grown through the muscle into the fat or have you just copied that from info websites? I'm sure it can only be Ta/T1 /TCis for BCG to be offered. The second biopsy is gold standard for this staging, to ensure not yet muscle invasive.
You should have a written report from the hospital stating stage & grade. If not, ask for one! Good wishes with your treatment.
I have had BCG from December to May. I was diagnosed with bladder cancer level G3 pt1. CT scan showed it had gone through the bladder wall into other organs. I have had a total of 9 cycles of chemotherapy. Namely, palliative cisplatin and gemcitabide. First part of each cycle lasted around 6 hours. I was given cisplatin and gemcitabide through a canula, interspersed with saline drips. After one week the second part of the cycle lasted only half an hour with cisplatin and saline drips. Next cycle started after 21 days.
Before each cycle I had a blood test and an appointment with my oncologist (Friday and Monday in my case). Providing blood levels were OK I had part one of the cycle next day. On two occasions the cycle was postponed for a week because of low blood counts. This is normal and nothing to worry about.
The brilliant news is that it worked. Kept the cancer at bay. After 3 cycles a CT scan indicated that all tumours had shrunk. Then after 9 cycles they shrunk further. I then signed up for the Atlantis trial. Chemo tablets taken at home to help to prevent tumours regrowing. Early signs is that this is also working.
Many patients have gone into remission. Hope this happens for you. In my case treatment is palliative because cancer had spread. Nevertheless, I have a reasonable quality of life. Get out and about every day and recently enjoyed the first holiday since treatment started.
The nursing staff and oncology team have been fantastic, so caring. If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to ring your dedicated nurse. They are most helpful and can get answers quickly.
I have found that remaining positive with the help of family and friends is the best way forward. However, it is natural that some folks worry more than others.
Hope this explanation helps. Use this site because there are lots of us who are on the same road. Remember that you are not alone.
Hi Sparkly, I have to agree with others regarding BCG, I’m sure it’s not for invasive bladder cancer, if that’s what you have I would be asking again why BCG. I’m pta, grade 3 and had BCG. Please get in touch with hospital and ask x
