Immunotherapy update

FormerMember
FormerMember
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Hi All, 

Not posted for a while as have spent practically all summer waiting for results of scans and tests.  
After an amazing response to Nivolumab unfortunately I have developed hepatitis from the treatment and it has had to stop. 
My liver enzymes went through the roof, I think my ALT was over 500! 
I was admitted to hospital and put on a high dose of IV steroids and this originally brought it down but it seems to rise every time they reduce them. They have now introduced a new  tablet which is quite experimental and I am hoping this starts to work.

The scans in hospital indicated progression of the residual cancer into my gallbladder, which they said was a most unusual spread, however after a months wait and CT, MRI and PET scans it shows no widespread metastatic disease which is such a huge relief. 

There is a slight area of activity from the residual growth on to the duodenum which is due to the treatment having to be stopped, however, I have an appointment at the huge University training hospital in the city nearest to us on Monday, where apparently the liver surgeons are outstanding. The MDT have met and they have slotted me in quickly. My consultant has asked if they would resect the area and they have been considering this. I have everything crossed that they will be able to operate, as this was not possible before the treatment. This would be a huge op and not without risks, but I am happy to go ahead and get rid of it hopefully for good. 


So all in all a bit of a mixed bag … disappointed that immunotherapy has had to stop but happy with the shrinkage! 

Will update as soon as I know … fingers crossed for everyone going through treatment and tests at the moment. 

Hope this may be helpful for anyone starting on immunotherapy. 

Take care all and keep safe. 

  • Hi ,

    Sorry to hear of your recent hurdles but tremendous shrinkage !

    That was really unfortunate with your liver enzymes and must have given you quite a fright ! Glad they were able to bring it back in line !

    I am holding out that they will get you to that surgical option ! I found the liver team to be outstanding here ! They took great care of my mum ! A lot to go through but it was worth it on the end !

    Hoping for the very best for you ! 
    Take care ,

    Court 

    Helpline Number 0808 808 0000

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to court

    Thanks been a bit scary but they always had options up their sleeves for me! And have been so quick with scans and results.

    Surgery was always the route I wanted to go down so maybe this is a blessing in disguise! 


    Hope your Mum is ok … I do read the posts but didn’t want to be negative and post until I knew what was happening with me.

    Take care and speak soon xx

  • All the very best of luck  You are such a trouper! Xx

    Onwards and flatwards (don't do hills) and keep walking if you can!

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to seaspirit44

    Thank you very much! You have certainly been through the mill as well.
    Hope you are ok and keeping well xx

  • You are never negative  and these are the twists and turns on this journey. Frightening as they can be , however I agree getting that surgical window is definitely a great plan .

    I am holding on hard that you get there ! 
    Mum is doing fine . Had a good holiday and now doing some projects around the house ! She lives something positive to get her teeth into !

    Take special care and I hope you hear soon ! With mum there was a time lag but once the decision was made she was in the following week !

    Court 

    Helpline Number 0808 808 0000

  • Oh Phiebeb21 so sorry to hear this. I hope you get the surgery you need. Shrinkage  is good news. I'll keep you in my prayers.  Stay strong and positive,  you can do this your such a strong lady. MusclePrayHeartHeart

  • Hi Phoebe 21, I have been thinking about you and how you are. Hope you get your op and like you said be rid of it. Take care and best wishes Nelly55 xx