Hi there I just wondered why I suddenly have developed sore feet and chilblains. Surgery nurse checked my feet today. I haven't suffered before. I am on treatment 6 pembrolizumab for melanoma stage 3c. I wondered if there was a link? Soles of my feet are sore too!! I am also an M.E and fibro suffered!! To add to the cause!!!: many thanks for your help.
Hi Cheddar,
Thanks for reaching out to us here at Macmillan Cancer Support and a warm welcome to the Online Community. My name is Donna, I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists here at the Support Line.
I can see you are a member of our Melanoma forum. Hopefully you are finding it a helpful and supportive space.
I am sorry to read that you have developed sore feet and chilblains. It sounds like this is understandably getting you down.
Pembrolizumab is an immunotherapy drug. It works by helping your immune system recognise and attack cancer cells.
With all medications there are side effects. One of the rarer side effects of pembrolizumab can be peripheral neuropathy. This is damage to the nerves in the hands or feet that can cause tingling, numbness and/or pain.
It is important to tell your treatment team if you notice any new symptoms that may be caused by treatment, or if your symptoms are getting worse. We would encourage you to contact them regarding this new development. They are best placed to assess you and take appropriate action. If you do have nerve damage it is better if it is diagnosed as early as possible.
I hope this information has been helpful for you.
Take care and best wishes,
Donna,
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref: DW/LB
