Cancer Research UK main site

Mesothelioma - I have been given a prognosis 10 - 12 months and I'm not sure whether to go ahead with immunotherapy

Mesoman
Offline

Hi all I've just been diagnosed with mesothelioma which is incurable and I have a prognosis of 10 to 12  months. I have been offered a course of immunotherapy with Ipilimumab and Nivolumab which could give me maybe another 10 or 12 months. With the prospect of side effects from the drugs and having maybe 1 good week in every 3 then is really going to benefit me or is it just stringing out the final outcome. 

  • Welcome to the forum Mesoman although I'm sorry to hear you've been diagnosed with Mesothelioma.

    Given your prognosis, this must be a very difficult time for you and your family, especially when making decisions about treatment.

    We have some information about immunotherapy for mesothelioma on our website, but if it would help to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They will do all they can to support you and address your queries and concerns.

    Hopefully some of our members who have the same diagnosis or experience of  having immunotherapy will be along soon to share their experiences and advice but in the meantime, we're thinking of you Mesoman and sending all our support your way.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Offline

    Hi Mesoman

    Im saddened to hear your prognosis, it is certainly a lot to deal with in every way.

    Im on a very similar immunotherapy treatment called Cemiplimab. There is a long list of dreadful side effects but I get just 2 fatigue and an itchy rash. I have a fairly good quality of life at the moment. This class of drugs is not like chemotherapy where you can feel dreadful for most of the time between treatments.

    If this treatment can double your life expectancy Id say it is a good bet and worth trying. If you really cannot tolerate it then you can always discontinue the course. You will be well looked after with 24 hr access to help if you need it. Also most of the side effects, if you get any, can be managed quite well.

    Give it a go you have nothing to lose and may be pleasantly surprised. And see in New Year 2027.

    Also take up their kind offer and have a chat with the nurses.

    Ed

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.