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Melanoma and Multiple Sclerosis

This topic has 2 replies, 2 voices, and was last updated 7 months, 3 weeks ago by Bubbles.

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- September 3, 2023 at 7:33 am
- Quote
Rowell
Participant
I will soon be starting a Nivolumab-Relatlimab infusion regimen for my metastatic melanoma. I also have primary progressive multiple sclerosis and am interested in understanding how the side effects of this immunotherapy treatment might impact my MS symptoms (mobility issues, tingling in extremities, stiff joints).

Thank you

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- - September 11, 2023 at 12:41 pm
  - Quote
  Bubbles
  Participant
  Hi Rowell,
  Sorry you are dealing with all of this. Clearly, immunotherapy can impact all of us with a variety of side effects – they often include a rash, joint pain, fatigue, etc. However, over time researchers have found (and several on this forum have lived experience) that those with preexisting autoimmune diseases can tolerate immunotherapy well and have a good response to their melanoma. EVEN if they have to have predisone or other immunosuppressive drugs to tolerate both their original disease and the immunotherapy!!!!
  
  Here is just one report from a bit ago – but still hold true today. ~ Immunotherapy for melanoma with a pre-existing autoimmune disease??? YES!!! You can!
  
  There are additional links within. Hope this helps and that you are doing well.
  
  Yours, Celeste
- - September 11, 2023 at 12:56 pm
  - Quote
  Bubbles
  Participant
  PS
  
  Two other links you might be interested in:
  
  What to do about immunotherapy if you – take steroids or infliximab for side effects? Have a pre-existing autoimmune disease?????
  
  Tolerating immunotherapy for melanoma DESPITE prior diagnosis with rheumatologic disease
  
  c

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