Frances M. Alba Archives

Recurrent T1HG Bladder cancer after BCG: More Intravesical Therapy or Radical Cystectomy

Posted by Frances M. Alba, MD | Nov 2024

Frances M. Alba, MD, Associate Professor of Urology at the University of New Mexico, discusses the management of T1 high-grade bladder cancer, focusing on cases that recur following BCG therapy. In this 14-minute talk, Dr. Alba notes that continued BCG is seldom effective in these patients. Alba highlights the AUA guidelines, recommending cystectomy as the best chance to prevent disease progression, but shares additional treatment paths when not an option.

Current Management of T1 High Grade Bladder Cancer

Posted by Frances M. Alba, MD | Oct 2024

Frances M. Alba, MD, discusses the management of T1 high-grade bladder cancer, focusing on cases that recur following BCG therapy.

In this 14-minute talk, Dr. Alba introduces the case of a 53-year-old male with T1 high-grade bladder cancer who underwent a complete six-week BCG course but experienced recurrence within ten weeks. Dr. Alba notes that BCG failure is not uncommon, with the term “BCG unresponsive” now used to describe persistent or recurrent disease within defined timeframes after adequate BCG treatment. In these patients, continued BCG is seldom effective.

Alba highlights the AUA guidelines for these patients, recommending cystectomy as the best chance to prevent disease progression. Despite its efficacy, only a quarter of urologists in the US recommend cystectomy for BCG-unresponsive cases, with many preferring intravesical chemotherapy. Gemcitabine-docetaxel combination therapy shows promise. Alba also shares additional options, such as nadofaragine, pembrolizumab, and novel therapies, including N-803.

An Assessment of Research Training Among US Urology Residency Programs, Including Characteristics, Resources, and Barriers Associated with Outcomes

Posted by Frances M. Alba, MD | Oct 2019

Frances M. Alba, MD, reviews the findings of a survey-based study she conducted to assess the current state of American urology residency programs, which she presented at the 98th Annual Meeting of the South Central Section of the American Urological Association. She emphasizes the importance of research training and scholarly activity for the well-being of residents and faculty, as well as for the overall advancement of urology.