That sounds like an incredibly difficult experience, and it's completely understandable to have serious concerns about continuing Keytruda after something like that.
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) works by activating your immune system to fight cancer cells — but sometimes it can cause the immune system to attack healthy parts Show Full Answer
That sounds like an incredibly difficult experience, and it's completely understandable to have serious concerns about continuing Keytruda after something like that.
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) works by activating your immune system to fight cancer cells — but sometimes it can cause the immune system to attack healthy parts of the body, including the kidneys. This is known as an autoimmune reaction, and it's one of the more serious potential side effects. Given what happened, your oncologist may consider alternatives. Some options that exist for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) include:
- Sacituzumab govitecan (Trodelvy) — another FDA-approved immunotherapy for TNBC
- Clinical trials — researchers are actively exploring new immunotherapy approaches for TNBC
It's really important to have an open and honest conversation with your care team about what happened and your concerns about continuing. They can help weigh the risks and benefits and find a plan that works safely for you.
Many MyBCTeam members have navigated treatment changes due to serious side effects — you're not alone in facing this kind of decision.
July 28
There is trial, I think Optimize, for no residual cancer after surgery, that half continue half do not. Too soon to tell, but might be promising.
Keytruda is immunotherapy, so it can have side effects. I am for treating cancer as aggressively as possible, especially TNBC, but kidneys are very important. Might time for a serious discussion with your doctor.
July 28
Good info. I did mit take it.
July 28
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