What are the side effects of immunotherapy?

[Kika1]

Hello, I have been diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer and the recommended treatment is immunotherapy, as the biopsy showed 90% compatibility with immunotherapy. What kind of side effects should I expect?

[CDPO16]

Hi and welcome. I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis but I hope that the treatment will be successful for you. I can't answer your query about the side effects of this treatment so, if other forum members can't either, you will need to talk to your specialist about it.

[Kpacific]

My brother, age 83, was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer about one year ago. He was put on immunotherapy (2 types) and did well with it for about 5 months. His tumor reduced in size, he played golf and felt well. He suffered no ill effects after his infusions.

However, the immunotherapy damaged his pancreas. He began having a variety of side effects including weight loss due to this damage. He was taken off the therapy and given a course of radiation therapy. The tumor can no longer be seen, my brother is feeling well and will be rechecked in 3 months.

This is just one patient's journey. I’m sure that your doctor can prepare you for possible side effects from your treatment. I send my best wishes to you.

[Hidden in reply to Kpacific]

That’s a good news story! I hope your brother continue to do well. Kika, 90% compatibility sounds encouraging. Perhaps the Macmillan website can tell you more.