[Preventive treatment of superficial tumors of the bladder using intravesical BCG. Review].

Local immunotherapy with BCG was first described by Zbar in an experimental model. The clinical use of BCG in human bladder carcinoma was proposed by Morales in 1976. Since then randomised studies have confirmed the value of BCG against recurrence and progression in superficial transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder (Lamm, Herr). However the optimal protocol has not been defined and the mode of action of BCG remains obscure. In this paper, the authors review the clinical results of BCG and its complications then focus on recent immunological data concerning its mode of action. Finally a practical protocol is proposed.