Immunotherapy for throat cancer

I had 3 cycles of immunotherapy for neck/throat , unfortunately it didn’t work for me and was stop and now on chemotherapy.

sorry I’m not much help

My husband was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer back in 22.  Initially he had laser treatment which at first thought had cleared it.  However in 23 it was found to still be there and so had 30 sessions of radiotherapy.  5 days a week for 6 weeks.  First 2 weeks fine but on 3rd week side effects kicked in.  Vomiting etc. Anyway that again was thought to be successful but in June 24 told it had metastasised.  Nodules on lungs.  Was offered Keytruda immunotherapy,  After 3 treatments you could see improvement.  Yes there are side effects but he has been fortunate.  Hope this is helpful.  Wish you all the best.

It baffles me as to why it’s only offered as palliative care until I read an article which said that NICE deemed it’s too expensive to be given for all head and neck cancer on the NHS.

Yes that would not surprise me.  My husband is having his thirteenth treatment next week and they are also going to give 5 sessions of radiotherapy which I am a little concerned about but told it is beneficial so have to go along with the specialists. He has definitely improved with the  immunotherapy.

Raewyn said:

It baffles me as to why it’s only offered as palliative care until I read an article which said that NICE deemed it’s too expensive to be given for all head and neck cancer on the NHS.

It’s not just that. There isn’t enough research into the effects and efficacy of IT as a first line treatment along with chemotherapy and RT. 
To say it’s exclusively cost is inaccurate. Even in a palliative setting you have to have the right kind of SCC. 
There are trials for advanced cancer where Durvalumab is given after CRT. At least I know somebody who was treated that way. There may of course be others. 

Thanks for replying Casboy.

Unfortunately my mothers immunotherapy does not seem to be working either.

Due to her age 83, I'm not sure if they would reccomend chemotherapy. 

I hope your chemo is successful.

Hi Gillell,

Thanks for all the information. Unfortunately my mother's cancer is proving very stubborn and the immunotherapy has not helped.

She can now hardly swallow her fortisip and needs to have a pump fitted. Also she has lost a considerable amount of weight. None of this is unexpected but it doesn't make it any easier to deal with.

Best wishes for your husbands recovery.

Thank you. It really is a rollercoaster.  Wish yo all the bestxx