[Short-term versus long-term chemoprevention of recurrence with Epodyl following transurethral resection of superficial urinary bladder cancer]. / Kurzzeit- versus Langzeitchemorezidivprophylaxe mit Epodyl nach TUR beim oberflächlichen Harnblasenkarzinom.

ABSTRACT

This investigation compares the short and long-term administration of intravesical Epodyl (etoglucid), following transurethral bladder tumor resection. This chemoprophylactic agent was used specifically in the treatment of bladder tumors that displayed different associated tumor risk factors solitary versus multiple tumors, grade(s) I-III, primary versus recurrent tumors, and the presence of associated dysplasia. Within this study, 114 patients with carcinoma of the bladder underwent primary transurethral resection (TUR), followed in 10 days by short-term intravesical therapy (STIT) or long-term intravesical therapy (LTIT). Short-term intravesical therapy was administered to 56 patients. The therapy consisted of a 1% solution of Epodyl, which was given once per week for 6 weeks. Long-term intravesical therapy was given to 58 patients. This consisted of the short-term intravesical therapy protocol, followed by an additional dose once a month during an observation period of 2 years. The follow-up in both groups was for a minimum of 2 years. When the total number of recurrences in patients receiving (STIT) or (LTIT) was compared, no marked differences were noted (39% vs 38%). However, there was a difference when the individual tumor risk features were compared, e.g. for solitary tumors, the recurrence rate was 67% within the (STIT) group and 43% within the (LTIT). These results demonstrate that the decision of whether superficial bladder carcinomas are to be treated with short- or long-term Epodyl should be based on tumor-associated risk factors. Furthermore, if multiple tumor risk factors are present, maximal therapy is require; in the absence of risk factors TUR alone may be sufficient.