Immunotherapy Side Effect

[Tike3]

Had full course of immunotherapy last September but unfortunately was unsuccessful and planned to start chemotherapy.

In February I became unwell with bowel problems including continuous diarrhoea. My chemo was put on hold.

As I became more and more unwell I was admitted to Christie's for investigations. I was completely dehydrated and had weight loss through not eating. Various test were done including scans, biopsies, blood test etc

The diagnosis made was that the immunotherapy 6 months earlier had caused ulcerative colitis. The Consultant said to me that immunotherapy can be very successful but also comes with terrible side effects

I'm now on the mend with the help of 20 prescription drugs a day.

Has anyone else experienced anything like this.

[foodbankcupar]

I had immunotherapy for two years but side effects were controllable.Bronchitis four or five times phlebitis and ballunitis.

But worked well on my Cancer.

I then went on a trial in Beatson in Glasgow immunotherapy and trial drug but only lasted three months as severe bronchitis twice and phlebitis too.

However I have had three scans since and Yes.. cancer is in remission.

So very pleased.

But have now got prostate cancer and starting radiotherapy very soon.

Slainte

Kevin

[Tike3 in reply to foodbankcupar]

Hello Kevin So pleased your cancer is in remission, was it lung cancer, but very sad you now have prostate, such a cruel blow.

Yes, I was really poorly, but hopefully can start my chemo again, only two left. I'm hoping for a few years or more! but with stage 4 NSCLC I just don't know, think everyone is different.

I'm at Christie's in Manchester, so many new drug trials and research isn't there.

Best wishes

Nic

[foodbankcupar in reply to Tike3]

Yes started in lung then spread to lymph nodes in my neck either side.NHS are brilliant.

Kevin

[Tike3 in reply to foodbankcupar]

Didn't know I had lung cancer went GP with stomach problems and scan he sent me for accidently picked up left upper lobe.

Mine spread lymph nodes, one vertebrae in spine which was treated with radiotherapy and unfortunately tiny spot in brain which they zapped with radiotherapy in February recent scan showed its gone, hopefully doesn't come back.

Yes, the NHS are amazing!

Nic

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Hi Nic

Sorry to hear you have been unwell with the Immunotherapy, and with any medication, everyone can react differently to it. Hope you continue to be managed well with your ulcerative colitis.

If you would like to discuss anything you can email ask the nurse at [e-mail] or call our free phone nurse led helpline number on 0800 358 7200 Monday to Thursday 0900-1700 and Friday 0900-1600

All the very best

The Roy Castle Support Team

[Tike3 in reply to RoyCastleHelpline]

Thanks so much for all the amazing support you provide, it's a lifeline.

Best wishes

Nic