Biotherapy Side Effects Overview

Questions and Answers

What is the primary cause of immune reactions during biotherapy?

The body reacts to the treatment as it is perceived as a foreign substance. (correct)

Healthy cells release toxins that adversely affect the immune system.

The treatment enhances the body's natural immunity without side effects.

The treatment positively stimulates the immune system against healthy cells.

Which of the following symptoms is NOT typically associated with hypersensitivity reactions to biotherapy?

Swelling of the tongue

Severe headache (correct)

Flushing of the face

Itching

When should patients notify their infusion nurse regarding changes in their condition during biotherapy?

At the end of their treatment session.

If they have flu-like symptoms regardless of other feelings.

Only if they experience severe side effects.

Whenever they feel any difference from how they felt when sitting down. (correct)

What types of symptoms may indicate an infusion reaction during biotherapy?

<p>Rash, swelling, and cough.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about flu-like symptoms and biotherapy is true?

<p>Flu-like symptoms can be a side effect of biotherapy treatment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Common Side Effects of Biotherapy

Biotherapy stimulates the immune system to target cancer cells but can also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects.
Side effects vary among individuals, can arise at any point during or after treatment.

Immune Reactions (Hypersensitivity Reactions)

Higher risk of immune reactions occurs due to the body’s strong response to the foreign substance.
Reactions can manifest immediately during infusion or as delayed reactions a few days to weeks after treatment.
Possible symptoms of hypersensitivity include:
- Itching, rash, or hives
- A "tickle" sensation in the throat
- Swelling of tongue, lips, or eyelids
- Flushing on the face and neck
- Fever or chills
- Cough and nausea
- Muscle or joint pain
- Swelling in body parts, often in the hands, legs, ankles, and feet
- Shortness of breath
Patients should alert their infusion nurse immediately if they feel any changes from their normal state prior to infusion.

Flu-Like Symptoms

Biotherapy may cause flu-like symptoms, which can include:
- Fever, chills, weakness, and dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle or joint aches
- Fatigue and headaches
Patients should report any flu-like symptoms or temperatures exceeding 100.4°F to their doctor.
Over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or Advil can be taken for chills or muscle/joint aches, unless contraindicated by a healthcare provider.

Description

Explore the common side effects of biotherapy, a treatment that stimulates the immune system to target cancer cells. Learn about immune reactions, hypersensitivity reactions, and how these side effects can vary among individuals. Understand when these side effects may occur during or after treatment.