How to manage side effects during urothelial cancer therapy?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 52-year-old woman and I have recently been diagnosed with metastatic urothelial carcinoma. My doctor mentioned a few treatment options, including immunotherapy and chemotherapy, but I am really unsure about which one to pursue. Are there any newer treatments available that might be less harsh on my body? I am also concerned about managing side effects, what can I expect during this process?

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Usually, patients with metastatic urothelial cancer need immunotherapy and chemotherapy. If the response to treatment is good, then surgery can be planned, including the removal of the urinary bladder. If the general condition of the patient is good, then initially chemotherapy and immunotherapy can be given in combination, followed by immunotherapy alone.

Immunotherapy and chemotherapy are the best treatments for metastatic urothelial cancer. In case these drugs do not work in the future or if there is progression of the disease, there are additional options available. Erdafitinib-based targeted therapy can be given to some patients after failure of immunotherapy and chemotherapy.

Side effects are generally less with immunotherapy, but some patients may develop severe toxicity due to chemotherapy. However, in most cases, side effects are manageable. The common side effects include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, fever, renal toxicity, and others.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.