@williamfh Update: I have 1 more infusion to go at the end of December. I haven't had any side effects physically or mentally while on the Keytruda. My infusions have been spaced apart 45 days for 1 year. I have been getting scanned every three months with MRI, and every other time they do a CT and MRI scan. Nothing has been found on the scans. Its really hard to see if the Keytruda is actually doing anything though. I mean, I had both tumors cut out, and before I had the second one cut out I did have a few infusions of the Keytruda, but it actually got a little larger over those few months. Of course the doctors say it could actually be working:
"Yes, a tumor can get larger while on Keytruda in the neoadjuvant setting and still be considered working, as immunotherapy can sometimes cause temporary growth before shrinkage. This can happen because the drug works by activating immune cells, which can cause inflammation around the tumor site, making it appear larger on scans. It is also possible for cancer to progress during treatment, and a doctor will monitor for signs of this."
My cancer was nodular melanoma. Very fast growing. Bottom line is I feel fine, can still hike 17 miles a day, eat normal, exercise, and live a very active lifestyle. I'll continue getting scanned every three months for the next year, then taper off to every 6 months for 5 years it seems, then I guess after that I wont be going back for radiation for no reason:)