Hello,
it is four years now since I had full hysterectomy followed by brachytherapy. I was fine until March last year when I was admitted to hospital with abdominal pains which were possibly due to a small kidney stone but when I had an xray and other tests I was told that the cancer has spread to other parts. I was offered chemo - Paclitaxel and Carboplatin - I have posted a message a few months ago as I had an adverse reaction to Paclitaxel - so I was continuing with Carboplatin which I have tolerated well.
Couple of weeks ago I had another scan and seen my consultant today - the news are not good - cancer has spread further and increased in size in my lungs and liver. I was given a choice of having immunotherapy involving Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and Lenvatinib or do nothing and palliative care.
I was given some literature about this immunotherapy treatment and had a brief look on the internet. Some side effects can be really horrible. I just wonder if anybody has any experience of this process?
Hi MHML
I remember you. I am sorry that you have had some bad news today. Do give the Support Line a call tomorrow if you feel like it would help to talk things through.
It is true that immunotherapy can have some unpleasant side effects however it can effect people in different ways.
I remember before going on my chemo and looking at the side effects and being really concerned. But I remember being told that they have to tell you all the potential side effects to enable you to make an informed consent. Just because a side effect is listed, it does not necessarily mean you will get it. And if you do there may well be medication or dose adjustments that can help.
I know you had a reaction to paclitaxel but were able to continue with the carboplatin. When you think back to the carboplatin treatment- how many side effects did you actually get. And like with the paclitaxel - if you do have a bad reaction or want to stop- you can. My feeling with the chemo was to give it a go and see how I personally got on. I wonder if this could be an option for your potential immunotherapy?
The next 2 links take you to previous posts in this group about pembro and lenvatinib.
(+) Macmillan Online Community
(+) Macmillan Online Community
The next two links are the Macmillan pages for the two treatments.
Pembrolizumab | Macmillan Cancer Support
Lenvatinib | Macmillan Cancer Support
Hope this helps a bit
Jane
