How to manage side effects of chemo in urothelial cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My uncle was diagnosed with metastatic urothelial carcinoma a few months ago and has been undergoing chemotherapy with Cisplatin and Pembrolizumab. While his treatment seems to be ongoing, I am concerned about the side effects he is experiencing, such as severe fatigue, nausea, and eating. I am also worried about the progression of the cancer and the effectiveness of the current treatment plan.

Can you provide guidance on how to manage these side effects better and if there are any alternative treatments or clinical trials that might help improve his prognosis and quality of life?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Immunotherapy (a type of cancer treatment that harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells) is the best option in metastatic urothelial cancer (an advanced and aggressive form of cancer that originates in the urothelial cells lining the bladder, ureters, and parts of the kidney).

It is effective with fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy (a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells). Most of its side effects are manageable. The common side effects of immunotherapy are:

Fatigue (the most common side effect).
Flu-like symptoms.
Organ-related inflammation.
Colitis (inflammation of the colon).
Skin rash, etc.

Managing the side effects of chemotherapy and immunotherapy-

Good rest and sound sleep.
Balanced and nutritious diet.
Supplements like vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals.
The physiotherapist recommends some exercise and walking.

Some patients should avoid immunotherapy, including:

Patients who are suffering from autoimmune diseases (occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, mistaking them for harmful invaders).
Patients who have undergone solid organ transplants.
People with suppressed immune systems.

When the immune system is accelerated, it acts against cancer and also against healthy cells and tissues. Many side effects occur.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.