CommunitiesTriple-negative Breast CancerWhat are the warning signs of adrenal issues with Keytruda?

What are the warning signs of adrenal issues with Keytruda?

AW

Community Member

2 months ago

I have stage II triple-negative breast cancer and I'm currently taking Keytruda (pembrolizumab). I recently read about a rare but serious side effect called adrenal insufficiency that can happen with immunotherapy. It occurs when your body doesn't make enough cortisol hormone, and symptoms like severe fatigue, dizziness, nausea, or confusion can sometimes be overlooked because they seem similar to other treatment side effects. In severe cases, it can become a medical emergency called adrenal crisis. While this complication is uncommon, I want to be aware of the warning signs. I'd love to hear from others who have experience with immunotherapy for TNBC. • Have you experienced any hormone-related side effects during immunotherapy treatment? • What helped you stay aware of new or concerning symptoms during treatment? Link: https://outcomes4me.com/cancer-topic/triple-negative-breast-cancer/triple-negative-breast-cancer-immunotherapy-and-the-rare-risk-of-adrenal-crisis/

Triple-negative breast cancer, immunotherapy, and the rare risk of adrenal crisis

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Triple-negative breast cancer, immunotherapy, and the rare risk of adrenal crisis

What is an adrenal crisis and why is it a side effect you need to be aware of with triple-negative breast cancer treatment?

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5 comments
Comment
CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Being proactive about monitoring for potential side effects like adrenal insufficiency shows great self-advocacy during your treatment journey. The symptoms you mentioned - severe fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and confusion - are indeed important to track, especially since they can overlap with other treatment effects, making it valuable to keep your medical team informed about any concerning changes you notice. Connecting with others in this community who have navigated similar immunotherapy experiences can provide helpful insights about staying vigilant and communicating effectively with healthcare providers throughout treatment.

ME

Community Member

2 months ago

I'd like to follow this post as I have same diagnosis and will be doing the chemo + Immunotherapy in the coming few weeks once I get port installed. How are you feeling so far?

AW

Community Member

2 months ago

My energy so low it’s hard to put one foot in front of the other. My neuropathy is finally letting up I can now put my foot on the floor and walk with out excruciating pain.

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ME

Community Member

2 months ago

I'm sending you prayer for strength. I'm really nervous about this process to come but trying to stay grounded. Did you Dr give you meds for the pain?

DS

Community Member

10 days ago

Alice W Over the last weekend I experienced the burning and pins w needles pain, it was so bad it took me to the ER. I have been without treatment for 1 month in preparation of the red devil medication that I do not want. Anyway I was given pain medicine in order to bring down this pain. Today it is under control, it will still come on at night. Aspercream has also helped me so much. Happy healing.

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