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Not eligible for Immunotherapy. Now what?
Lung Cancer | Last Active: May 22 5:00pm | Replies (58)Comment receiving replies
Good Day all….
After going through two rounds of chemo and radiation I have found that my cancer is growing. The options that my oncologist gave me are:
1: try a new chemo of Taxotere and Ramucirumab
2: immunotherapy Ipilimumab and Nivolumab
Until now I was not considered a candidate for immunotherapy because my PDL is zero and also I had one bout of Colitis several years ago. Not sure why he feels this is an option for me now. I think he’s just throwing me a bone because nothing else has helped?
I have a little time to make a decision. Primary tumor shows slight growth but 5 new modules have showed up, I want to take my grandkids on one last vacation before I start any treatment again. Vacation planned for two weeks from now.
I’m in the fence about what to do, has anyone had experience with either of these options?
The chemo will for sure cause complete loss of hair, as trivial as that may seem it’s a big deal to me. I’ve been very private about having cancer and losing all my hair will be a big blow to me. As for the immunotherapy I wonder about that because I don’t have the markers and I’ve heard about some terrible side effects from immunotherapy drugs.
Any advice or experiences to share?
Replies to "Good Day all…. After going through two rounds of chemo and radiation I have found that..."
What markers do you need to have in order to receive immunotherapy? Thx
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@detroitmom23, I'm so sorry to hear this news. I wish the treatments would have been more effective for you.
Possibly Cynde @loula can comment on experience with Taxotere.
I'm glad that you are taking some time to take your grandchildren on a trip. That's great therapy for all of you! I'm sure they love you so much and treasure the time they spend with you.
The potential for hair loss isn't trivial. Many of us are able to go through life not looking like a typical cancer patient (whatever that means today). Did your doctor mention any steps to reduce the hair loss, if possible? Some people try cold capping, but it may not always be effective and can extend your time in the infusion center. I think it depends on the person and the strength of the chemo.
(https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/wigs-1/
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/cancer-education-center/newsfeed-post/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-cold-cap-therapy-can-reduce-hair-loss-caused-by-chemotherapy-1/)
The options presented to you should be rooted in science, your doctor should be explaining why they believe the treatments might be effective, and safe for you. Many of us will face these difficult decisions, but we're not doctors or scientists. It's difficult to understand the options, and even more difficult to feel that we're making educated decisions. Do you think another opinion might be helpful?