Chemo Stomach Mucositis, anyone?

Posted by artistrose @artistrose, May 6 7:44am

This lung cancer journey certainly has twists and turns. I guess more than a question I’m just updating on my situation. Adenocarcinoma, EGFR, mets stage 4, on Tagrisso, completed 3 cycles of combined Carboplatin and Alimta, was supposed to finish 4 combos then go to Alimta maintenance chemo. Well….cycle 3 chemo I got stomach mucositis, weak, sick, lost 8 lbs in a week, and just now introducing soft foods back into my system. I have a cancer dietician who’s helping me. I also have pancreas issues but no one is saying cancer… yet. Today I’ll speak with my Palliative Care doctor. I plan to completely quit chemo (next week I’m scheduled for cycle 4!!) but I want to discuss with her before calling oncology. Also scheduled for a port next week and not sure if I should go ahead with that if not doing chemo. I’m guessing I have at least another few weeks recovering from this gut mucositis. My family is supportive of me if I drop chemo as I’ll still have Tagrisso targeted therapy. Anyone else out there get stomach mucositis?

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denzie | @denzie | May 6 12:15pm

With the chemo protocol you are on (minus the Tagrisso), I had terrible stomach aches. My oncologist gave me sublingual Zofran and Olanzapine pills and they made a huge difference.

Talk to your oncologist if you're not using the sublingual to see if it's appropriate. The pancreas issue could be related to the chemo, also ask if a lower dose might be appropriate. I had to lower my dosage before treatment ended and I am still stable.

artistrose | @artistrose | May 6 12:55pm

I have sublingual zofran and compazine. For my 2nd chemo I had the steroid reduced. What I have is stomach mucositis, another side effect which I understand is common. I had the pancreas issues prior to my lung cancer dx, 2 pancreatic attacks, have a cyst in tail of pancreas, and side branch IPMN. For me the stomach mucositis is a red line for me on the chemo.
However, thank you for your thoughts and input - it is much appreciated.

mamajite | @mamajite | May 6 3:40pm

@artistrose thanks for updating us on how you're doing. I'm sorry you're experiencing stomach mucositis - losing 8lbs in a week sounds rough. I agree that if you're not planning to continue chemo, no need for a port. please update us after you talk more with your team. I hope you start feeling better soon. hugs!

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