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Lung cancer immunotherapy, though promising, can have various side effects for patients.
Common Side Effects
- Fatigue
- Skin reactions (rash, itching)
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Changes in appetite
- Cough and shortness of breath
- Autoimmune reactions
Less Common Side Effects
- Thyroid problems
- Pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs)
- Colitis (inflammation of the colon)
- Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver)
- Neurological effects (headaches, seizures)
Statistics on Side Effects
Side Effect | Incidence Rate (%) |
---|---|
Fatigue | 40-50% |
Skin reactions | 30-40% |
Pneumonitis | 5-15% |
Colitis | 1-5% |
Neurological effects | 1-3% |
Patient Management Strategies
- Regular monitoring for side effects
- Use of supportive medications (anti-nausea, corticosteroids)
- Patient education on symptom recognition
- Adjusting dose or schedule if needed
- Consultation with specialists for severe reactions
Thought Process Flowchart
- Start Treatment
- Monitor for Side Effects
- Fatigue?
- Skin Reactions?
- Pneumonitis?
- Treat Symptoms
- Consider Dose Adjustment
- Consult Specialist if Severe
- Continue Monitoring
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