Pembrolizumab choice to make - grey area

FormerMember
FormerMember
  • 24 replies
  • 60 subscribers
  • 5413 views

Hello - needing ideas for my dilemma.  The oncologist has put me in a grey area after the removal of melanoma cells from a lymph node and a subsequent clear scan.  I can choose to go on this drug or not.  Previously I've received clear guidance about whether to go for treatment at each stage so it's quite difficult now in having to make a choice.

Having read everything and putting it into context as a preventative measure I'm feeling inclined not to go for it.  As I appear to be low risk I don't think it's worth it for the side effects - and I realise not everyone gets them but actually some people do and they can be serious.

I am a fit and healthy 57 year old woman with a positive outlook on everything!

Anyone been in a similar position? Should I get a second opinion?  Thanks for reading.

  • Hope your car recovered - all you need! 

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to Tivbin

    Still being fixed - just like me!!!

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to Joolskigirl

    That's the hardest part I think, when you feel completely well and don't want to ruin it..... 

  • Hi JerryD, just thought I'd add my experience even though I read you've made a decision.  From what I understand the side effects are not the same as chemo at all.  I've just had my 5th dose of Pembro today for a 3C ulcerated melanoma diagnosed in end of march.  The tiredness creeps up on you gradually and has given me an earlier bedtime but I'm up and about in the daytime as normal. Constipation is the newest issue but easily treated with diet adjustments. I can see that some of the side effects are very serious but at the time I just wanted to throw everything at the stray cancer cells that could be roaming round looking for a home!  

    I respect that we all have to make a choice for ourselves and I don't regret mine (yet!).

    Take care x