normal side effects after treatment

In November 2003 I was diagnosed with bladder cancer and had a T.U.R. and fragmentation done.  The cancer was superficial stage two.  I have had two BCG treatments to date.  Two days after the second treatment I had a small amount of pinkish or bloodly urine.  On the fourth day after the second treatment I have urinated four times and all four times I have had a lot of blood with clotting.  Is this a normal side effect with BCG treatment? The clotting concerns me as this was the first sympton that led to the cancer diagnoses. I am a fifty year old male.

Thank you!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The hematuria definitely may be a side effect.  Side effects of BCG thereapy are generally irritative in nature and include hematuria (46%), burning (91%), frequency (90%), fever (24%), and fatigue (18%). These symptoms usually resolve, although more serious complications can occur in 5%, and life threatening problems in less than 1%.

I would suggest following this up with your urologist.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.