Whilst having IV chemo on 21 Dec 09, I had a "needle slip" which meant that for a short period Cetuximab was going into the tissue of my arm instead of into the vein. Ever since then my arm has been swollen and uncomfortable and about two weeks ago it became red, hard and really painful.
I'm currently on the third type of antibiotics, none of which have helped. At my insistence I've been prescribed codeine for the pain, which I am taking every six hours along with ibuprofen and paracetamol. Sometimes this works, sometimes not.
The hospital doctors seem pretty casual and unbothered and don't seem to particularly know or care what is the right treatment to get this sorted. It's so painful and my arm if almost useless, which makes the simplest everyday tasks difficult and driving impossible. I'm so frustrated and scared, will this ever get sorted?
Please, does anyone have any experience of this or know how it should be treated?
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007