Treatment for pleural mesothelioma

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Treatment for pleural mesothelioma"

Transcription

1 Treatment for pleural mesothelioma This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding mesothelioma. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 9. Contents Treatment overview Chemotherapy for pleural mesothelioma Radiotherapy for pleural mesothelioma Surgery for pleural mesothelioma Treatment overview For most people, treatment is given to help control symptoms and to slow the growth of the pleural mesothelioma. Treatments may include chemotherapy (see below), radiotherapy and other treatments, sometimes known as supportive therapies. Very occasionally, if mesothelioma is diagnosed before it s spread or if it s only spread to nearby tissues, surgery may be an option. Chemotherapy for pleural mesothelioma Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer (cytotoxic) drugs to destroy cancer cells. The drugs disrupt the way cancer cells grow and divide but they also affect normal cells. You may be offered chemotherapy to help slow the growth of your mesothelioma, shrink your mesothelioma and control and improve symptoms such as pain and breathlessness. Your doctor will let you know if it s a suitable treatment for you. Questions about cancer? Ask Macmillan Page 1 of 9

2 How chemotherapy is given Chemotherapy drugs for pleural mesothelioma are usually given by injection into a vein (intravenously). Each session of chemotherapy may last between one and a few days, and is followed by a rest period of a few weeks. This is known as a cycle of treatment. The number of cycles you have depends on the stage of your cancer and how well it s responding to treatment. The drugs that are used The most commonly used drugs to treat pleural mesothelioma are pemetrexed (Alimta ) together with cisplatin (or sometimes carboplatin). You ll usually be given these drugs on the same day as an outpatient. You ll then have a rest with no chemotherapy for 20 days before starting your next cycle of treatment. If you have pemetrexed, you ll be given the vitamins B12 and folic acid. These help to reduce side effects of treatment without reducing its effectiveness. Other chemotherapy drugs may sometimes be used. These may be given as part of a clinical trial. We can send you a booklet about chemotherapy, which has more detailed information. Side effects of chemotherapy Chemotherapy drugs can affect some of the healthy cells in your body and this can cause side effects. Most side effects will go away when treatment is over. Each person s reaction to chemotherapy is different. Some people have very few side effects, while others may experience more. The most common side effects of pemetrexed and cisplatin are: Risk of infection Pemetrexed and cisplatin can reduce the number of white cells in your blood. This will make you more likely to get an infection. Page 2 of 9 Questions about cancer? Ask Macmillan

3 Your white blood cells start to reduce seven days after treatment and are usually at their lowest days after. When the number of white blood cells is low it s called neutropenia. Contact the hospital straight away on the contact number you ve been given if: your temperature goes over 37.5 C (99.5 F) or over 38 C (100.4 F), depending on the advice given by your chemotherapy team you suddenly feel unwell, even with a normal temperature you have symptoms of an infection this can include feeling shaky, a sore throat, a cough, diarrhoea or needing to pass urine a lot. Your white cells usually increase steadily and return to normal before your next treatment. You will have a blood test before having more chemotherapy. If your blood cells are still low, your doctor may delay your treatment for a short time. Bruising and bleeding Pemetrexed and cisplatin can reduce the number of platelets in your blood. Platelets are cells that help the blood to clot. Tell your doctor if you have any bruising or bleeding you can t explain. This includes nosebleeds, bleeding gums, blood spots or rashes on the skin. Some people may need a drip to give them extra platelets. Anaemia (low red cells) Pemetrexed and cisplatin can reduce the number of red cells in your blood. These cells carry oxygen around the body. If they are low you may be tired and breathless. Tell your doctor or nurse if you feel like this. If you are very anaemic, you may need a drip to give you extra red cells (blood transfusion). Feeling sick This may happen in the first few days after chemotherapy. Your doctor will prescribe anti-sickness (anti-emetic) drugs to help prevent or control sickness. Take the drugs exactly as your nurse or pharmacist explains to you. It s easier to prevent sickness than to treat it after it has started. If you still feel sick or are vomiting, contact the hospital as soon as possible. They can give you advice and change the anti sickness drug to one that works better for you. Questions about cancer? Ask Macmillan Page 3 of 9

4 Sore mouth Your mouth may become sore or dry, or you may notice small ulcers during treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids, and cleaning your teeth regularly and gently with a soft toothbrush can help to reduce the risk of this happening. Tell your nurse or doctor if you have any of these problems, as they can prescribe mouthwashes and medicine to prevent or clear mouth infections. Diarrhoea Your doctor can prescribe drugs to control diarrhoea. Let them know if it is severe or if it doesn t get better. Make sure you drink at least two litres (three and a half pints) of fluids every day if you have diarrhoea. Numbness or tingling in hands or feet These symptoms are caused by the effect of cisplatin on nerves. It s called peripheral neuropathy. You may also find it hard to fasten buttons or do other fiddly tasks. Tell your doctor if you have these symptoms. They sometimes need to lower the dose of the drug. The symptoms usually improve slowly after treatment finishes but in some people they may never go away. Talk to your doctor if you are worried about this. Tiredness (fatigue) Feeling very tired is a common side effect. It s often worse towards the end of treatment and for some weeks after it s finished. Try to pace yourself and get as much rest as you need. It helps to balance this with some gentle exercise, such as short walks. If you feel sleepy, don t drive or operate machinery. Eye problems Pemetrexed may make your eyes feel sore, red and itchy (conjunctivitis). Your doctor will prescribe eye drops to prevent this. It s important to use these as instructed. Hearing changes Cisplatin can affect your hearing. You may have a hearing test before you start treatment. During treatment you may get ringing in your ears (tinnitus) and lose the ability to hear some high pitched sounds. Tinnitus usually gets better after treatment ends. Some hearing changes can be permanent. Tell your doctor if you notice any changes in your hearing. Page 4 of 9 Questions about cancer? Ask Macmillan

5 Hair loss Your hair will thin. Very rarely people lose all the hair from their head. Hair loss usually starts after your first or second cycle of chemotherapy. It is almost always temporary and your hair will grow back after chemotherapy ends. It is important to cover your head to protect your scalp when you are out in the sun. Your nurse can give you advice about coping with hair loss. Although they may seem hard to bear at the time, most of the side effects are temporary and will disappear once your treatment is over. We can send you more information about these chemotherapy drugs and their side effects. Radiotherapy for pleural mesothelioma Radiotherapy treats cancer by using high-energy x-rays to destroy cancer cells, while doing as little harm as possible to normal cells. It is normally given as a series of short, daily outpatient treatments in the radiotherapy department. It uses equipment which looks similar to a large x-ray machine. Radiotherapy may be given: to help relieve symptoms such as pain and breathlessness alongside surgery and chemotherapy (this may be as part of a clinical trial our booklet Understanding cancer research trials describes clinical trials in more detail) to the chest wall at the place where a biopsy has been done or a drainage tube has been inserted. The radiotherapy may prevent the tumour from growing out through the scar trials are looking at how effective it is. Sometimes only one or two treatments are needed, but more often a course of treatment is given over a few days or weeks. Sometimes only one or two treatments are needed, but more often a course of treatment is given over a few days or weeks. Questions about cancer? Ask Macmillan Page 5 of 9

6 Planning radiotherapy Before you start your treatment it needs to be planned. Planning makes sure that the radiotherapy is aimed precisely at the cancer so that it causes the least possible damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. All radiotherapy treatments are planned on an individual basis by your clinical oncologist, a physicist and sometimes by a senior or specialist radiographer. Your first planning visit will take minutes. The staff in the radiotherapy department will explain what to expect. It s important for you to feel that you re involved in your treatment, so feel free to ask as many questions as you need to. You ll usually have a CT (computerised tomography) scan taken of the area to be treated. You may have some marks drawn on your skin to help the radiographer to position you accurately and set where the treatment will be delivered. It s important not to rub them off until your treatment is finished. Sometimes tiny, permanent marks are made on the skin. At the beginning of your radiotherapy you ll be given instructions on how to look after your skin. Treatment sessions At the beginning of each session of radiotherapy, the radiographer will position you carefully on the treatment couch and make sure you re comfortable. Once you re in the correct position the radiographers will leave the room and you ll be given your treatment. They will tell you how long your treatment will take before you start. Radiotherapy isn t painful, but you will have to lie still for a few minutes during the treatment. The radiographers will be able to see you and many treatment rooms also have an intercom in the treatment room so they can talk to you during your treatment. I went through a period when my chest started to get very, very tight and thick with phlegm. I was put on radiotherapy and that stopped the phlegm coming up on my chest which helped me breathe a bit easier. Martin Page 6 of 9 Questions about cancer? Ask Macmillan

7 Side effects of radiotherapy You may develop side effects while you are having your radiotherapy treatment. These usually disappear gradually over a few weeks or months after treatment finishes. Your doctor, radiographer or nurse will discuss this with you so you know what to expect. Let them know about any side effects you have during or after treatment, as there are often things that can be done to help. Tiredness Not everyone feels tired during radiotherapy treatment but many people do. If you feel tired, get plenty of rest but balance this with some gentle exercise, such as short walks. This will give you more energy and help to keep your muscles working. Save some energy for doing the things you enjoy and ask others for help doing chores if these are tiring you out. Skin reactions Some people develop a skin reaction while having radiotherapy. How your skin reacts will vary depending on the amount of radiotherapy you are having. Your doctor, radiographer or nurse will tell you how to look after your skin during and after treatment. Difficulty swallowing After a week or two of treatment, you may find it difficult to swallow. You may also have heartburn and indigestion. This happens because the radiotherapy can cause inflammation in the tube that runs from your mouth to your stomach, called the gullet (oesophagus). Tell your doctors if you have problems swallowing, as they can give you medicines to help. If you don t feel like eating, or have problems with swallowing, you can replace meals with nutritious, high-calorie drinks. These are available from most chemists and can be prescribed by your GP. Cough You may develop a cough while you are having your radiotherapy. This usually settles within a few weeks of finishing your treatment. If it doesn t settle, or if you develop a temperature, tell your doctor, radiographer or specialist nurse as you may have an infection. Feeling sick Some people find that their treatment makes them feel sick (nausea) and sometimes they may be sick (vomit). Your doctor (or sometimes a nurse or radiographer) can prescribe effective Questions about cancer? Ask Macmillan Page 7 of 9

8 anti-sickness drugs if this happens. Tell your doctor, nurse or radiographer if you have any nausea or vomiting. We can send you more information about coping with nausea and vomiting. These side effects should disappear gradually once your course of treatment is over, but it s important to let your doctor know if they continue. We can send you more information on coping with these side effects. Radiotherapy does not make you radioactive and it s perfectly safe for you to be with other people, including children, throughout your treatment. Our booklet Understanding radiotherapy explains this treatment in more detail. Surgery for pleural mesothelioma Surgery is only suitable for some people with pleural mesothelioma. The aim of surgery is to help with symptoms and to control the disease rather than to cure it. The operation will be done by a specialist chest surgeon who is experienced in the treatment of mesothelioma. An operation may be carried out as part of a clinical trial. Pleurectomy/decortication (PD) A pleurectomy/decortication involves removing only the tumour and pleura. The lung tissue is not removed. Extended pleurectomy/decortication (EPD) As well as removing the tumour and pleura, the surgeon will also remove the covering of the heart (pericardium) and the muscle between the lung and the abdomen (diaphragm). Page 8 of 9 Questions about cancer? Ask Macmillan

9 Partial pleurectomy A partial pleurectomy is occasionally used to help stop fluid building up in the lung. This can help reduce breathlessness and pain. It can also help a collapsed lung to reinflate with air, which will help reduce breathlessness. It may be possible to have a partial pleurectomy using keyhole surgery. With this type of surgery, only small openings are made instead of one large cut (incision). If surgery is a suitable treatment for you, your doctor will tell you more about what to expect. More information and support More than one in three of us will get cancer. For most of us it will be the toughest fight we ever face. And the feelings of isolation and loneliness that so many people experience make it even harder. But you don t have to go through it alone. The Macmillan team is with you every step of the way. To order a copy of Understanding mesothelioma or any other cancer information, visit be.macmillan.org.uk or call We make every effort to ensure that the information we provide is accurate and up to date but it should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialist professional advice tailored to your situation. So far as is permitted by law, Macmillan does not accept liability in relation to the use of any information contained in this publication, or thirdparty information or websites included or referred to in it. Macmillan Cancer Support Registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Registered office 89 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7UQ REVISED IN APRIL 2015 Planned review in 2017 Questions about cancer? Ask Macmillan Page 9 of 9

Chemotherapy for lung cancer

Chemotherapy for lung cancer This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding lung cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 8. Contents Chemoradiation Small cell lung cancer

More information

Chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer

Chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer Chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding lung cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 3. Contents

More information

Chemotherapy for head and neck cancers

Chemotherapy for head and neck cancers Chemotherapy for head and neck cancers This information is from the booklet Understanding head and neck cancers. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 7. Contents

More information

Treating Mesothelioma - A Quick Guide

Treating Mesothelioma - A Quick Guide Treating Mesothelioma - A Quick Guide Contents This is a brief summary of the information on Treating mesothelioma from CancerHelp UK. You will find more detailed information on the website. In this information

More information

Radiotherapy for breast cancer

Radiotherapy for breast cancer Radiotherapy for breast cancer This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding breast cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a copy free see page 6. Contents Radiotherapy

More information

Radiotherapy for vulval cancer

Radiotherapy for vulval cancer This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding cancer of the vulva. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a copy free see page 6. Contents External radiotherapy Internal

More information

Other treatments for chronic myeloid leukaemia

Other treatments for chronic myeloid leukaemia Other treatments for chronic myeloid leukaemia This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding chronic myeloid leukaemia. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a copy free

More information

How treatment is planned Giving your consent The benefits and disadvantages of treatment Second opinion

How treatment is planned Giving your consent The benefits and disadvantages of treatment Second opinion Treatment overview for lung cancer This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding lung cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 5. Contents How

More information

FEC chemotherapy. The drugs that are used. How treatment is given

FEC chemotherapy. The drugs that are used. How treatment is given Macmillan and Cancerbackup have merged. Together we provide free, high quality information for all. FEC chemotherapy This fact sheet is about a chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer called FEC. It describes

More information

Chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukaemia

Chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukaemia Chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukaemia This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding acute myeloid leukaemia. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page

More information

Surgery and cancer of the pancreas

Surgery and cancer of the pancreas Surgery and cancer of the pancreas This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding cancer of the pancreas. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 8. Introduction

More information

Controlling symptoms of mesothelioma

Controlling symptoms of mesothelioma Controlling symptoms of mesothelioma This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding mesothelioma. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 9. Contents

More information

Surgery for breast cancer in men

Surgery for breast cancer in men Surgery for breast cancer in men This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding breast cancer in men. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 9. Contents

More information

Radiotherapy for a mesothelioma

Radiotherapy for a mesothelioma Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust The Radiotherapy Department Radiotherapy for a mesothelioma Information for patients Introduction This leaflet is for people who have been recommended treatment with

More information

Surgery for oesophageal cancer

Surgery for oesophageal cancer Surgery for oesophageal cancer This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding oesophageal cancer (cancer of the gullet). You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy

More information

Temozolomide (oral) with concurrent radiotherapy to the brain

Temozolomide (oral) with concurrent radiotherapy to the brain Temozolomide (oral) with concurrent radiotherapy to the brain Temozolomide (oral) with concurrent radiotherapy to the brain This leaflet is offered as a guide to you and your family. You will find it useful

More information

Chemotherapy. What is chemotherapy? How does it work? What is cancer? How will I be given chemotherapy? Cannula

Chemotherapy. What is chemotherapy? How does it work? What is cancer? How will I be given chemotherapy? Cannula INFORMATION SHEET This information sheet has been written to help you understand more about chemotherapy. The sheet discusses the support and information your doctors, nurses and the Cancer Society can

More information

A practical guide to understanding cancer

A practical guide to understanding cancer A practical guide to understanding cancer About this booklet 1 About this booklet This booklet is about a type of cancer called mesothelioma. It is about the diagnosis and treatment of the two main types

More information

University College Hospital. Stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) for lung cancer. Radiotherapy Department Patient information series

University College Hospital. Stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) for lung cancer. Radiotherapy Department Patient information series University College Hospital Stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) for lung cancer Radiotherapy Department Patient information series 39 2 If you need a large print, audio or translated copy of

More information

Vincristine by short infusion Doxorubicin by injection Cyclophosphamide by injection Rituximab by an infusion over between 60 minutes to a few hours

Vincristine by short infusion Doxorubicin by injection Cyclophosphamide by injection Rituximab by an infusion over between 60 minutes to a few hours R-CHOP R-CHOP This leaflet is offered as a guide to you and your family. The possible benefits of treatment vary; for some people chemotherapy may reduce the risk of the cancer coming back, for others

More information

About lung cancer. Contents. The lungs

About lung cancer. Contents. The lungs This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding lung cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 7. The lungs Contents The lungs Types of lung cancer

More information

Docetaxel (Taxotere) This booklet explains what docetaxel is, when it may be prescribed, how it works and what side effects may occur.

Docetaxel (Taxotere) This booklet explains what docetaxel is, when it may be prescribed, how it works and what side effects may occur. Docetaxel (Taxotere) This booklet explains what docetaxel is, when it may be prescribed, how it works and what side effects may occur. Treatment Lorem ipsum and dolore side effects estes 2 Call our Helpline

More information

Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD)

Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding donor stem cell (allogeneic) transplants. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy

More information

Radioactive iodine treatment for thyroid cancer

Radioactive iodine treatment for thyroid cancer Radioactive iodine treatment for thyroid cancer This information is an extract from the booklet, Understanding thyroid cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a copy free see page

More information

JASCAP JEET ASSOCIATION FOR SUPPORT TO CANCER PATIENTS MUMBAI, INDIA

JASCAP JEET ASSOCIATION FOR SUPPORT TO CANCER PATIENTS MUMBAI, INDIA 81 Mesothelioma JASCAP JEET ASSOCIATION FOR SUPPORT TO CANCER PATIENTS MUMBAI, INDIA Macmillan Cancer Support, [2013].This publication is based on [Understanding Mesothelioma May 2013 7th. edition] published

More information

Radiotherapy to the chest wall

Radiotherapy to the chest wall Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust The Radiotherapy Department Radiotherapy to the chest wall Information for patients Introduction This leaflet is for people who have had surgery for breast cancer

More information

Treating Oesophageal Cancer A Quick Guide

Treating Oesophageal Cancer A Quick Guide Treating Oesophageal Cancer A Quick Guide Contents This is a brief summary of the information on Treating from our website. You will find more detailed information on the website. In this information there

More information

FOLFOX Chemotherapy. This handout provides information about FOLFOX chemotherapy. It is sometimes called as FLOX chemotherapy.

FOLFOX Chemotherapy. This handout provides information about FOLFOX chemotherapy. It is sometimes called as FLOX chemotherapy. FOLFOX Chemotherapy This handout provides information about FOLFOX chemotherapy. It is sometimes called as FLOX chemotherapy. What is chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is a method of treating cancer by using

More information

PRIMARY LUNG CANCER TREATMENT

PRIMARY LUNG CANCER TREATMENT PRIMARY LUNG CANCER TREATMENT Cancer Care Pathways Directorate Tailored Information in Cancer Care (TICC) Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre December 2014 Contents About this booklet 1 Types of Lung Cancer

More information

Mesothelioma. 1995-2013, The Patient Education Institute, Inc. www.x-plain.com ocft0101 Last reviewed: 03/21/2013 1

Mesothelioma. 1995-2013, The Patient Education Institute, Inc. www.x-plain.com ocft0101 Last reviewed: 03/21/2013 1 Mesothelioma Introduction Mesothelioma is a type of cancer. It starts in the tissue that lines your lungs, stomach, heart, and other organs. This tissue is called mesothelium. Most people who get this

More information

It can be devastating to be diagnosed with a cancer like multiple myeloma. But there are treatments that can help you live longer and feel better.

It can be devastating to be diagnosed with a cancer like multiple myeloma. But there are treatments that can help you live longer and feel better. Patient information from the BMJ Group It can be devastating to be diagnosed with a cancer like multiple myeloma. But there are treatments that can help you live longer and feel better. What is multiple

More information

Contents. Overview. Removing the womb (hysterectomy) Overview

Contents. Overview. Removing the womb (hysterectomy) Overview This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding womb (endometrial) cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 9. Overview Contents Overview Removing

More information

Drug treatments for kidney cancer

Drug treatments for kidney cancer James Whale Fund for Kidney Cancer Drug treatments for kidney cancer Before your doctors can discuss treatment options with you they need to know how far your cancer has progressed. Staging is used to

More information

Chemotherapy for pancreatic

Chemotherapy for pancreatic Chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer 1 Chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer This information is from the booklet Understanding pancreatic cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free

More information

The Radiotherapy Department Radiotherapy to the chest wall and lymph nodes

The Radiotherapy Department Radiotherapy to the chest wall and lymph nodes Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust The Radiotherapy Department Radiotherapy to the chest wall and lymph nodes Information for patients Introduction This leaflet is for people who have had surgery for

More information

Understanding Pleural Mesothelioma

Understanding Pleural Mesothelioma Understanding Pleural Mesothelioma UHN Information for patients and families Read this booklet to learn about: What is pleural mesothelioma? What causes it? What are the symptoms? What tests are done to

More information

Kent Oncology Centre Radiotherapy Side Effects and Management: Breast and Chest Wall Information for patients Maidstone Hospital

Kent Oncology Centre Radiotherapy Side Effects and Management: Breast and Chest Wall Information for patients Maidstone Hospital Kent Oncology Centre Radiotherapy Side Effects and Management: Breast and Chest Wall Information for patients We hope this leaflet will help you understand the side effects that may occur when having external

More information

Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant Mesothelioma Malignant Malignant mesothelioma is a tumour originating from mesothelial cells. 85 95% of mesotheliomas are caused by asbestos exposure. It occurs much more commonly in the chest (malignant pleural mesothelioma)

More information

Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant Mesothelioma Malignant mesothelioma is a tumour originating from mesothelial cells. 85 95% of mesotheliomas are caused by asbestos exposure. It occurs much more commonly in the chest (malignant pleural mesothelioma)

More information

Asbestos and your lungs

Asbestos and your lungs This information describes what asbestos is and the lung conditions that are caused by exposure to it. It also includes information about what to do if you have been exposed to asbestos, and the benefits

More information

Chemotherapy What It Is, How It Helps

Chemotherapy What It Is, How It Helps Chemotherapy What It Is, How It Helps What s in this guide If your doctor has told you that you have cancer, you may have a lot of questions. Can I be cured? What kinds of treatment would be best for me?

More information

Gemcitabine and Cisplatin

Gemcitabine and Cisplatin PATIENT EDUCATION patienteducation.osumc.edu What is Gemcitabine (jem-site-a been)? Gemcitabine is a chemotherapy medicine known as an anti-metabolite. Another name for this drug is Gemzar. This drug is

More information

How to Improve Bladder After Bowler Cancer

How to Improve Bladder After Bowler Cancer Bladder changes after bowel cancer treatment This information is from the booklet Managing the late effects of bowel cancer treatment. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy

More information

Multiple Myeloma. This reference summary will help you understand multiple myeloma and its treatment options.

Multiple Myeloma. This reference summary will help you understand multiple myeloma and its treatment options. Multiple Myeloma Introduction Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects white blood cells. Each year, thousands of people find out that they have multiple myeloma. This reference summary will help

More information

Paclitaxel and Carboplatin

Paclitaxel and Carboplatin PATIENT EDUCATION patienteducation.osumc.edu What is Paclitaxel (pak-li-tax-el) and how does it work? Paclitaxel is a chemotherapy drug known as an anti-microtubule inhibitor. Another name for this drug

More information

Lung cancer (non-small-cell)

Lung cancer (non-small-cell) Patient information from the BMJ Group Lung cancer (non-small-cell) It can be devastating to find out that you or someone close to you has lung cancer. You will have to make some important decisions about

More information

Mesothelioma and Asbestos

Mesothelioma and Asbestos CANCER INFORMATION FACTSHEET Mesothelioma and Asbestos The information in this factsheet will help you to understand more about mesothelioma. It is an agreed view on this cancer by medical experts. We

More information

Radiation Therapy for Palliative Treatment at The Carlo Fidani Peel Regional Cancer Centre

Radiation Therapy for Palliative Treatment at The Carlo Fidani Peel Regional Cancer Centre Radiation Therapy for Palliative Treatment at The Carlo Fidani Peel Regional Cancer Centre Introduction...2 Patient Education and Information...2&3 Treatment Planning...3&4 Your Appointments...5 Radiation

More information

The Radiotherapy Department Radiotherapy to the breast Information for patients

The Radiotherapy Department Radiotherapy to the breast Information for patients Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust The Radiotherapy Department Radiotherapy to the breast Information for patients page 2 Introduction This leaflet is for people who have had surgery for breast cancer

More information

Surgery. Wedge resection only part of the lung, not. not a lobe, is removed. Cancer Council NSW

Surgery. Wedge resection only part of the lung, not. not a lobe, is removed. Cancer Council NSW The treatment you receive will depend on your lung cancer type, for example, whether you have a non-small cell lung cancer Adenocarcinoma or Squamous cell carcinoma, and if this is a sub-type with a mutation.

More information

Ovarian cancer. Patient information from the BMJ Group. What is ovarian cancer? What are the symptoms?

Ovarian cancer. Patient information from the BMJ Group. What is ovarian cancer? What are the symptoms? Patient information from the BMJ Group Ovarian cancer Ovarian cancer is a serious disease. If it s diagnosed at an early stage, ovarian cancer can usually be cured. But even cancers that are more advanced

More information

How prostate cancer is diagnosed

How prostate cancer is diagnosed How prostate cancer is diagnosed This information is an extract from the booklet Having tests for prostate cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 7. Contents

More information

For the Patient: Paclitaxel injection Other names: TAXOL

For the Patient: Paclitaxel injection Other names: TAXOL For the Patient: Paclitaxel injection Other names: TAXOL Paclitaxel (pak'' li tax' el) is a drug that is used to treat many types of cancer. It is a clear liquid that is injected into a vein. Tell your

More information

Lung Cancer. Know how to stay strong

Lung Cancer. Know how to stay strong Lung Cancer Know how to stay strong What is cancer? 2 Cancer is a disease when some cells in the body grow out of control Normal cells Your body has many tiny cells and keeps making new cells to keep you

More information

More than 2,500 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the UK each year.

More than 2,500 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the UK each year. This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding mesothelioma. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 5. Contents Introduction Pleural mesothelioma Peritoneal

More information

Questions about your pain medicines

Questions about your pain medicines Questions about your pain medicines This information is an extract from the booklet Controlling cancer pain. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 6. Contents Common

More information

Effect of breast cancer treatment

Effect of breast cancer treatment Effect of breast cancer treatment on the bones 1 Effect of breast cancer treatment on the bones This information is from the booklet Managing the late effects of breast cancer treatment. You may find the

More information

For the Patient: GDP Other names: LYGDP

For the Patient: GDP Other names: LYGDP 1 For the Patient: GDP Other names: LYGDP G D P Gemcitabine Dexamethasone (taken by mouth) CISPlatin Uses: GDP is a drug treatment given for Non-Hodgkins and Hodgkin Lymphoma with the expectation of destroying

More information

FEC chemotherapy Factsheet

FEC chemotherapy Factsheet FEC chemotherapy Factsheet This factsheet explains what the chemotherapy combination FEC is, when it may be prescribed, how it works and what side effects may occur. 2 What is FEC? Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk

More information

Treating Melanoma S kin Cancer A Quick Guide

Treating Melanoma S kin Cancer A Quick Guide Treating Melanoma Skin Cancer A Quick Guide Contents This is a brief summary of the information on Treating melanoma skin cancer from our website. You will find more detailed information on the website.

More information

Understanding Cytotoxic Chemotherapy

Understanding Cytotoxic Chemotherapy Understanding Cytotoxic Chemotherapy Introduction Chemotherapy is part of your continuing treatment. This booklet has been compiled in an effort to help you understand cytotoxic chemotherapy. It is your

More information

TCH: Docetaxel, Carboplatin and Trastuzumab

TCH: Docetaxel, Carboplatin and Trastuzumab PATIENT EDUCATION patienteducation.osumc.edu TCH: Docetaxel, Carboplatin and Trastuzumab What is TCH? It is the short name for the drugs used for this chemotherapy treatment. The three drugs you will receive

More information

Patient identifier/label: Page 1 of 6 PATIENT AGREEMENT TO SYSTEMIC THERAPY: CONSENT FORM FEC-T. Patient s first names. Date of birth.

Patient identifier/label: Page 1 of 6 PATIENT AGREEMENT TO SYSTEMIC THERAPY: CONSENT FORM FEC-T. Patient s first names. Date of birth. Patient identifier/label: Page 1 of 6 PATIENT AGREEMENT TO SYSTEMIC THERAPY: CONSENT FORM FEC-T Patient s surname/family name Patient s first names Date of birth Hospital Name: Guy s Hospital St. Thomas

More information

Massage therapy and energy-based therapies

Massage therapy and energy-based therapies Massage therapy and energy-based therapies This information is an extract from the booklet Complementary therapies and cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a copy free see page

More information

Deciding whether to become a parent

Deciding whether to become a parent Deciding whether to become a parent This information is an extract from the booklet, Relationships, sex and fertility for young people affected by cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can

More information

TC: Docetaxel and Cyclophosphamide

TC: Docetaxel and Cyclophosphamide PATIENT EDUCATION patienteducation.osumc.edu What is TC? It is the short name for the drugs used for this chemotherapy treatment. The two drugs you will receive during this treatment are Docetaxel (Taxotere

More information

Breast reconstruction using an implant after risk-reducing surgery

Breast reconstruction using an implant after risk-reducing surgery Breast reconstruction using an implant after risk-reducing surgery This information is from the booklet Understanding riskreducing breast surgery. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you

More information

Secondary liver cancer Patient Information Booklet

Secondary liver cancer Patient Information Booklet Secondary liver cancer Patient Information Booklet Delivering the best in care UHB is a no smoking Trust To see all of our current patient information leaflets please visit www.uhb.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflets.htm

More information

Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer

Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer Introduction Cancer of the prostate is the most common form of cancer that affects men. About 240,000 American men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year. Your

More information

How To Take A Strong Opioid Painkiller

How To Take A Strong Opioid Painkiller Using strong painkillers for cancer pain This information is an extract from the booklet Controlling cancer pain. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a copy free see page 8. Contents

More information

BREAST CANCER TREATMENT

BREAST CANCER TREATMENT BREAST CANCER TREATMENT Cancer Care Pathways Directorate Tailored Information in Cancer Care (TICC) Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre December 2014 Contents About this booklet 1 Your First Oncology Consultation

More information

After pelvic radiotherapy

After pelvic radiotherapy After pelvic radiotherapy in women 1 After pelvic radiotherapy in women This information is from the booklet Pelvic radiotherapy in women managing side effects during treatment. You may find the full booklet

More information

Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma

Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma Produced 28.02.2011 Revision due 28.02.2013 Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma Lymphoma is a cancer of cells called lymphocytes. These cells are part of our immune system, which helps us to fight off infections.

More information

Types of surgery for kidney cancer

Types of surgery for kidney cancer Useful information for cancer patients Contents This information is about the different operations that you may have for kidney cancer. Surgery can be used to treat almost any stage of kidney cancer. There

More information

PERIPHERAL STEM CELL TRANSPLANT INTRODUCTION

PERIPHERAL STEM CELL TRANSPLANT INTRODUCTION PERIPHERAL STEM CELL TRANSPLANT INTRODUCTION This booklet was designed to help you and the important people in your life understand the treatment of high dose chemotherapy with stem cell support: a procedure

More information

AC: Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide

AC: Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide PATIENT EDUCATION patienteducation.osumc.edu What is AC? It is the short name for the drugs used for this chemotherapy treatment. The two drugs you will receive during this treatment are Doxorubicin (Adriamycin

More information

Mesothelioma and Asbestos

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Cancer information factsheet Mesothelioma and Asbestos The information in this factsheet will help you to understand more about mesothelioma. It is an agreed view on this cancer by medical experts. We

More information

Treatment of colon cancer

Treatment of colon cancer Treatment of colon cancer This information is an extract from the booklet, Understanding colon cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a copy free see page 5. Contents How treatment

More information

Lung cancer. Lung cancer: English

Lung cancer. Lung cancer: English Lung cancer: English Lung cancer This fact sheet is about how lung cancer is diagnosed and treated. We also have fact sheets in your language about chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, side effects of

More information

About the kidneys and kidney cancer

About the kidneys and kidney cancer About the kidneys and kidney cancer This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding kidney cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 5. The kidneys

More information

Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers

Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers CANCER FACTS N a t i o n a l C a n c e r I n s t i t u t e N a t i o n a l I n s t i t u t e s o f H e a l t h D e p a r t m e n t o f H e a l t h a n d H u m a n S e r v i c e s Mesothelioma: Questions

More information

For the Patient: Dasatinib Other names: SPRYCEL

For the Patient: Dasatinib Other names: SPRYCEL For the Patient: Dasatinib Other names: SPRYCEL Dasatinib (da sa' ti nib) is a drug that is used to treat many types of cancer. It is a tablet that you take by mouth. Tell your doctor if you have ever

More information

CT scan. Useful information. Contents. This information is about CT scans. There are sections on

CT scan. Useful information. Contents. This information is about CT scans. There are sections on CT scan Useful information Contents This information is about CT scans. There are sections on How a CT scanner works What happens Preparation for the scan Abdominal CT scans CT scans of the head CT scans

More information

Breathing techniques to help breathlessness 1

Breathing techniques to help breathlessness 1 Breathing techniques to help breathlessness 1 Breathing techniques to help breathlessness This information is from the booklet Managing breathlessness. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send

More information

Surgery and other procedures to control symptoms

Surgery and other procedures to control symptoms Surgery and other procedures to control symptoms This fact sheet is for people diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer who will be having surgery or another interventional procedure to relieve symptoms

More information

RADIATION THERAPY FOR LYMPHOMA. Facts to Help Patients Make an Informed Decision TARGETING CANCER CARE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR RADIATION ONCOLOGY

RADIATION THERAPY FOR LYMPHOMA. Facts to Help Patients Make an Informed Decision TARGETING CANCER CARE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR RADIATION ONCOLOGY RADIATION THERAPY FOR Facts to Help Patients Make an Informed Decision TARGETING CANCER CARE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR RADIATION ONCOLOGY FACTS ABOUT The lymphatic system is a network of tiny vessels extending

More information

Are you worried about prostate cancer? 1

Are you worried about prostate cancer? 1 Are you worried about prostate cancer? 1 Are you worried about prostate cancer? This information is from the leaflet Are you worried about prostate cancer? You may find the full leaflet helpful. We can

More information

Lung Cancer Understanding your diagnosis

Lung Cancer Understanding your diagnosis Lung Cancer Understanding your diagnosis Lung Cancer Understanding your diagnosis When you first hear that you have cancer you may feel alone and afraid. You may be overwhelmed by the large amount of information

More information

Physical therapies. Massage

Physical therapies. Massage This information is an extract from the booklet, Understanding complementary therapies. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a copy free see page 6. This information discusses eight physical

More information

How To Understand How Cancer Works

How To Understand How Cancer Works Mesothelioma Understanding your diagnosis Mesothelioma Understanding your diagnosis When you first hear that you have cancer, you may feel alone and afraid. You may be overwhelmed by the large amount of

More information

What is DCIS? Contents. The breasts

What is DCIS? Contents. The breasts This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding ductal carinoma in situ (DCIS). You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 6. Contents The breasts What is

More information

Get the Facts About. Disease

Get the Facts About. Disease Get the Facts About TB TUBERCULOSIS Disease What s Inside: 3 PAGE Get the facts, then get the cure 4 PAGE 9 PAGE 12 PAGE Learn how TB is spread Treatment for TB disease Talking to family and friends about

More information

All about. (bevacizumab) Information for people being treated with Avastin for advanced ovarian cancer

All about. (bevacizumab) Information for people being treated with Avastin for advanced ovarian cancer All about (bevacizumab) Information for people being treated with Avastin for advanced ovarian cancer AVASTIN AT A GLANCE Avastin also known as bevacizumab is a medicine used to treat a number of different

More information

Staying on Track with TUBERCULOSIS. Medicine

Staying on Track with TUBERCULOSIS. Medicine Staying on Track with TB TUBERCULOSIS Medicine What s Inside: Read this brochure to learn about TB and what you can do to get healthy. Put it in a familiar place to pull out and read when you have questions.

More information

Surgery for rectal cancer

Surgery for rectal cancer This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding rectal cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 12. Contents Enhanced recovery programme (ERP) Before

More information

Disease/Illness GUIDE TO ASBESTOS LUNG CANCER. What Is Asbestos Lung Cancer? www.simpsonmillar.co.uk Telephone 0844 858 3200

Disease/Illness GUIDE TO ASBESTOS LUNG CANCER. What Is Asbestos Lung Cancer? www.simpsonmillar.co.uk Telephone 0844 858 3200 GUIDE TO ASBESTOS LUNG CANCER What Is Asbestos Lung Cancer? Like tobacco smoking, exposure to asbestos can result in the development of lung cancer. Similarly, the risk of developing asbestos induced lung

More information

Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Acute Myeloid Leukemia Acute Myeloid Leukemia Introduction Leukemia is cancer of the white blood cells. The increased number of these cells leads to overcrowding of healthy blood cells. As a result, the healthy cells are not

More information

WHEN PROSTATE CANCER RETURNS: ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER. How Will I Know If My Prostate Cancer Returns?

WHEN PROSTATE CANCER RETURNS: ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER. How Will I Know If My Prostate Cancer Returns? WHEN PROSTATE CANCER RETURNS: ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER (The following information is based on the general experiences of many prostate cancer patients. Your experience may be different.) How Will I Know

More information