Intravesical application of Gemicitabine for superficial bladder cancer resistant to intrvesical immunotherapy with BCG vaccine

Abstract

Transurethral removal of tumor with following intravesical chemotherapy with Gemicitabine were performed to 14 patients with superficial bladder cancer relapses after TUR with adjuvant intravesical BCG – therapy. Adjuvant treatment was initiated 2 – 3 weeks after TUR: 1000 mg of gemicitabine was solved in 100 ml of physiologic solution and instillated into the bladder 2 times a week for 3 week. After 1 week break the second course of chemotherapy was carried out.

Treatment was well tolerated by all patients. The follow-up period ranged from 1,5 to 22 months (mean 10,6±7,0 months). After mean period of 11,3 months 10 patients were disease free. Recurrence developed in 4 patients with multifocal bladder relapses. No disease progression was registered. Adjuvand intravesical chemotherapy with Gemicitabine is effective in patients with recurrences of superficial bladder cancer and is well tolerated.