Are there alternative cancer treatments when chemo causes severe side effects?

Your experience sounds incredibly challenging, and seeking a second opinion at MD Anderson shows great self-advocacy for your care. There are several treatment approaches that oncologists may consider when standard chemotherapy causes severe reactions, including targeted therapies, immunotherapies, hormone therapies (when appropriate), or modified dosing schedules that might be better tolerated. The medical team there will be able to review your complete medical history and explore options that balance effectiveness with your body's ability to tolerate treatment.

Thanks so much, for sharing your experience - it helps me understand that I wasn’t making things up w/my own experience. I’d been on kadcyla (2nd line of tX) since Oct 2021 and just 2 weeks ago - after going through similar challenges to yours - started on my 3rd tX protocol (targeted therapy). As I’m still dealing w/1st time SE from this I’ve not had time to really dig deep to understand the difference between chemotherapy + targeted therapy. Anyhow, my point is, I had rashes right from the start - uncomfortable, embarrassing, atimes painful - and yet every provider I mentioned it too, made it seem like it wasn’t a kadcyla-issue. Also, developed dry eyes, swollen feet, and a host of other side effects. Often brushed off. So, thank you…I feel validated.