Is joint pain after BCG a known side effect?

  • 4 replies
  • 49 subscribers
  • 125 views

Hello friends, this may sound a bit random but I would be interested in any thoughts and comments - I have developed acute pain in my right elbow and I have been seen by Doctors at A&E and they cannot give a diagnosis or underlying cause. I have not knowingly hurt it in an accident, it is not tennis elbow, there is no swelling, redness or signs of infection but it is clear it  is extremely painful  to the touch and when it flares up every few days I have restricted movement because it is so painful.  A&E suggested I contact my specialist nurse and ask if is a known side effect of BCG. To be honest, I haven't asked my nurse as I feel a bit stupid doing so... I thought I would start by asking my friends on here if they have ever heard of such a thing as pain in a joint after BCG --- I have had 9 in total since April, 6 induction and 3 maintenance the last one was four weeks ago.

Thanks

Frank

  • Hi Frank, I think you should tell your cancer nurse specialist. I believe I have heard of a side effect which involves joint pain, however I can’t recall where or any detail. I had 27 BCG doses which did cause considerable inflammation in the bladder but not anywhere else, but we all react differently. it’s the CNS’s job to know these links and if it’s unrelated to the treatment they can reassure you, Best wishes H x

  • Thanks H, I’ll drop her an email and ask.

    Frank

  • Hi Frank,In rare cases it can cause a reactive arthritis so do contact your nurse.Let us know how you get on.Best wishes Jane x

  • Frank, it could well be reactive arthritis. I suffer from foot, and BCG made it worse. So you might get GP to test urea levels in your blood etc. Leo