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Immunotherapy side effects - what have your experiences been like?

robbiss
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I recently had a tumour successfully removed from my left kidney. It was diagnosed as stage 2 renal cancer which meant I qualified for immunotherapy. I have an appointment with oncology in May to discuss this treatment for a year, every 6 weeks.

I've read a lot of negatively about possible side effects and illness caused by this.

Wondered if anyone had something similar and what their experience of immunotherapy was

Parents
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    I have kidney cancer and have been receiving Prembolizumab every six weeks for the last 9 months. I have been experiencing some side effects but they are manageable. Because it is using your own immune system to fight the cancer everyone’s experience of immunotherapy is different. You will be given a lot of support.

    Once you start the treatment you will be given a number to call 24x7 if you are feeling unwell or worried about side effects. It is staffed by a team of cancer nurses, based at your local hospital. You will also be allocated a specialist cancer nurse, who works closely with your oncologist. You can call them with any non-urgent questions and concerns.

    Deciding to go ahead with treatment is a very personal decision. I was worried and anxious at the start but I have had a positive experience. As farmer_ed says you could always try the treatment. You can ask to pause it at any time, or stop it completely, if you feel it is too much to cope with.

    Good luck with your oncology appointment.

    Fan

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    I have kidney cancer and have been receiving Prembolizumab every six weeks for the last 9 months. I have been experiencing some side effects but they are manageable. Because it is using your own immune system to fight the cancer everyone’s experience of immunotherapy is different. You will be given a lot of support.

    Once you start the treatment you will be given a number to call 24x7 if you are feeling unwell or worried about side effects. It is staffed by a team of cancer nurses, based at your local hospital. You will also be allocated a specialist cancer nurse, who works closely with your oncologist. You can call them with any non-urgent questions and concerns.

    Deciding to go ahead with treatment is a very personal decision. I was worried and anxious at the start but I have had a positive experience. As farmer_ed says you could always try the treatment. You can ask to pause it at any time, or stop it completely, if you feel it is too much to cope with.

    Good luck with your oncology appointment.

    Fan

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