Intravesical Epirubicin Plus BCG to Prevent the Recurrence of Transitional Cell Carcinoma of Bladder

Methods From July 1996 to November 2003, a total of 138 cases of bladder cancer underwent TURBT or partial cystectomy were entered the trail. They were divided into 3 groups randomly: 1, EPI plus BCG; 2, use BCG alone; and 3, use EPI alone. All the patients have been followed up for 28-40 months after surgery (average time was 36 months), and the frequency of bacterial, chemical cystitis and other local side effects were also observed.Results After a median follow up of 36 months, the number of recurrences in group 1 was significantly reduced than group 2 and 3 (p<0.05 vs group 2 and 3, x2-test). The frequency of bacterial, chemical cystitis and other local side effects was similar in group 1 and 2, whereas significant severe side effect was found in group 3 (p<0.05 vs group 2 and 1, x2-test). Allergic reactions, including skin rash, were more frequent in group 3, and other systemic effects were more frequent in group 1. Conclusion Biochemotherapy by single dose EPI plus sequential BCG intravesical is markedly effect in preventing the recurrence of bladder cancer after surgical management. Its side effects are low. This method is of high clinical value.

Inclusion criteria

• primary single or multiple (more than 2 tumors) pTa to pT1 transitional cell carcinoma, solitary or multiple grade Ⅲ tumors and primary or concomitant carcinoma in situ of the bladder were included in the study

Exclusion criteria

• Previous radiotherapy, intravesicial or systemic chemotherapy within 3 months of the study, presence of a second primary malignancy and transitional cell carcinoma of the upper urinary tract or prostatic urethra, invasion of periurethral prostatic ducts, prostatic gland or stroma were exclusion criteria