Has anyone had arthritic pain after treatment with Keytruda?

Posted by ebf @ebf, Feb 21 10:13am

Late in April 2024, I was diagnosed with adenocarcenoma of the head of my pancreas. I had two infusions with Fulfironox before my genetic testing confirmed the cancer is related to my MSH 2 and MSI Highsnd a candidate for immunotherapy, Keytruda. Five infusions of Keytruda later, I was deemed to have had a complete response, but after treatment four I had begun experiencing hip and knee joint pain. After the 5th treatment, I became so “locked up” my husband took me to the ER. After the ER doc finally consulted with my oncologist, I was prescribed prednisone ( a shot in the ER) and a MedPak. This worked well, and a later visit with the oncologist resulted in a prescription for 10 mg per day. However, all my medical team members wanted me to reduce my dependence on the steroid. I very slowly weaned myself off but stiffness had returned and my hands are very swollen now. I read that many Keytruda users have experienced some pain post-treatment for three to six months. I am at four months. I am now going to PT and go to SilverSneakers exercise program twice a week. Any advice or suggestions from fellow survivors?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Pancreatic Cancer Support Group.

@ebf, I added your question to the Cancer: Managing Symptoms group as well. There are members who are taking Keytruda for other cancer types that may weigh in.

The stiffness and pain sound horrible. Given that you've had a complete respons regarding the tumor, have you stopped Keytruda treatments now? Weaning off prednisone can be challenging. When the stiffness and swelling returned did you increase the dose to the previous level and taper more slowly?

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