In layman’s terms the treatment paints a target on the cancer cells so that they can be see by your immune system. Normally they cannot be seen. Your immune system then goes to work attacking the cancer cells.
A better description can be found here
I was told a good result is when I get my next scan after 3 months and 4 treatments that the tumour in my kidney hasn’t grown. An excellent result would be if it has shrunk.
I’m on a regime called ipi/nivo which is combines two powerful drugs, Ipilimumab and nivolumab. I will have both of these drugs via a drip every 3 weeks for 4 treatments. Then a repeat set of scans and if we see good results then a break of 4 weeks and then continued treatment every 4 weeks with just one of the drugs for the rest of my life or until it stops working.
I has a lot of possible side effects and most are treatable, the most common ones being diarrhoea, fatigue, rashes. I have access to a treatment hotline, 24×7 and can discuss any issues or suspected side effects.
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