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Vaccine BCG Bladder Cancer
About Vaccine BCG Bladder Cancer
BCG is used as an immunotherapy for bladder cancer. Since 1976, intravesical BCG has been the standard treatment for non muscle invasive bladder cancer after surgery. BCG stimulates the local immune response, attacking cancer cells. The mechanism is not fully understood but involves activation of innate and adaptive immunity. A majority of patients respond to BCG treatment. BCG shortages have occurred because only a few manufacturers produce the clinical grade BCG needed for bladder cancer. Sanofi had production problems from 2012 and later discontinued its bladder cancer BCG product. Merck and Japan BCG Laboratory are the primary suppliers. The BCG shortage has forced urologists to ration supply or use alternative treatments. The repurposing of a century old tuberculosis vaccine for cancer treatment illustrates the unexpected applications of immunology and the value of basic vaccine research.
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