Retuximab, I’ve just had my first infusion yesterday how worried should I be about infections/ colds I work in a big open plan office help

[dfehilly]

First time retuximab

[Melba1]

Hi, I have my first rituximab next week and my rheumy told me it would take a few weeks to make me immunocompromised (if it works) but the aim is to reduce our immunity so we will be more vulnerable to infections. I’ve just told my colleagues to email me if they’ve got any germs and agreed I’ll work from home if anything is around at work. Can you do that?

How was the infusion? Did you have any reaction? I’m a bit worried because I react to everything!

X

[dfehilly in reply to Melba1]

Hi my first infusion went well no problems nearly 6 hours inc pre meds. The nurses have advised me next one will be quicker . Other than feeling tired I had no side affects. Luckily my employers have been v supportive and have allowed me to work from home for both weeks as I work in a v large open plan office and v many people r coughing and sneezing

Good luck w yr treatment .

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi dfehilly ,

How are you feeling following your infusion? If you feel you develop any symptoms of an infection then it is worth discussing this with your doctor and they can advise you. In some cases they may wish to offer anti-viral treatments or antibiotics.

Do you have a specialist rheumatology/lupus nurse? If they have a helpline number, perhaps you could call them to discuss this?

[dfehilly in reply to Paul_Howard]

Thank u , feeling fine after first one only worried about picking up infections from poorly colleagues . Not so worried about second infusion. I will work from home to reduce risk . I wonder how long it takes for the B cells to return ?

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to dfehilly]

Hi dfehilly ,

I think that the effects of a rituximab infusion last for different lengths of time in different people. I'm sure your medical team will monitor you and base any future infusions on your disease activity and symptoms.

[Maureenpearl]

Hi dfehilly, I had a course of Rituximab in November 17 and since Christmas I have had two chest infections. I had a chest X-ray last Wednesday and Thursday my Gp rang to say I have another chest infection.

Your B cells will be destroyed but will grow back so be careful about mixing with people. I was with a lot of family members at Christmas for two days and a small child had a nasty cold which even though I tried not to go near this child I developed it and it went to my chest because the lupus has damaged my lungs (Pulmonary Fibrosis).

Please be careful and take care

Maureen xx