Bacteriuria and BCG

[Aroha]

A cystoscopy early August was followed by a UTI.
Following two unsuccessful courses of antibiotics my GP, informed me that further prescriptions of antibiotics would be inadvisable.
The GP when requisitioning the urinalysis had not bothered to copy in the Urologist so I took the lab results to the Uro’s office.
On a follow up visit earlier this month, the Urologist informed me there was no cancer at this point and then handed me a perscription for yet another anti biotic.He provided me no opportunity for discussion.
The subsequent Lab report, “because of a protocol issue” did not complete a macro analysis and now a week later the asymptomatic infection is back.
There has been no contact from the Uro ‘s office about the latest incomplete analysis. It seems evident that he will not proceed with the next round of BCG
scheduled for late November/ December if he knows the colonized e-coli
are once again thriving.
YET, MULTIPLE STUDIES, make the point that BCG will eradicate the
e-coli and that there is little risk of Uro sepsis.
I find myself to be in the unenviable position of although certainly not being
neglected, yet treated with indifference. For sure, as a patient I have no Voice.
I am also a poor advocate for myself and at age 85 I am becoming somewhat less articulate. Then too, English is my second language and it shows.
I am looking for advise from members on how to deal and cope with these issues.
Thank you.

[marysue]

Hi Aroha:

Welcome to Bladder Cancer Canada but it isn’t sure that you need us yet. However that being said, I suggest that you call the toll free number and ask to be connected to Jack Moon, past president and cofounder of Bladder Cancer Canada. He has connections to get people referred to different doctors.

It sounds to me like you need to start afresh and have a second opinion to rule out any possibility of bladder cancer and if it’s not bladder cancer find out what is causing your issues.

Whether BCG is necessary to deal with your issues, I can’t say not being a doctor, but having had 21 treatments for actual bladder cancer, I suggest that you get a second opinion first as this is a potent drug that has side effects, and is not to be messed with.

So, as I suggest, call Toronto and get connected and see where it goes. Best wishes and let us know how it goes. ((((HUGS))))

[Aroha]

Hello Mary Sue
Thank you for your response.
Sorry, I should have been clearer about my bladder situation.
I have the more aggressive type of in situ bc.
Some medical websites advises not to treat bacteriuria in the elderly , whereas other sites recommend it should be treated prior to invasive urinary tract procedures.
I have left a message with the Uro in the hope he will clarify the issue.
He is a good dr. And has operated on me several times but he is harried and not given to lengthy explanations. I know Jack may advise a trip to Vancouver, but that would be extremely difficult at this stage.
Kind Regards

[marysue]

Hi Aroha!

I missed the point earlier that you mentioned about being age 85. Age and having other health issues could be reasons that your urologist may be holding off on recommending BCG treatments.

I suggest a further conversation with him to see if you have health risks that you are not aware of. Yes, CIS (carcinoma insitu) is an aggressive form of bladder cancer and is usually treated with BCG post TURBT, but only your urologist can explain why, if he is not recommending BCG. If he isn’t in favour of BCG, I suggest asking if he has any other options in mind.

Best wishes and let us know how it goes. ((((HUGS))))

[Author]

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