A short note about the most common side effects of immunotherapy

Immunogenetics: Open access journal focuses on the genetic research areas of autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, diabetes mellitus type 1, systemic lupus erythematous, etc.

Immunogenetics is the branch of medical genetics that explores the relationship between the immune system and genetics.

Skin reactions. Skin redness, blistering, and dryness are common reactions to immunotherapy. Skin on the fingertips may crack. Skin may also become more sensitive to sunlight. A lot of scratching can break the skin, making it more prone to infections. Inflammation around the nails can make grooming, dressing, and other activities painful or difficult. Read more about managing and treating skin irritations and reactions.

Flu-like symptoms. Fatigue (feeling tired), fever, chills, weakness, feeling sick to your stomach, vomiting , dizziness, body aches, and high or low blood pressure are all possible side effects of immunotherapy.

They are especially common in non-specific immunotherapy and oncolytic virus therapy. It is very important to stay hydrated when experiencing these symptoms. Seek medical attention if you are unable to keep any liquids down, and talk with your doctor about how to manage these side effects. Many side effects will go away on their own, but others can be very serious and require attention right away.

Other possible side effects you may experience include:

• Muscle aches
• Shortness of breath (trouble breathing)
• Swelling of legs (edema)
• Sinus congestion
• Headaches
• Weight gain from retaining fluid
• Diarrhea

Hormone changes, including hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormones and can cause fatigue and weight gain

Cough

It is important to note that there can be other side effects that are not listed here. Talk with your health care team about what side effects you can expect, who to contact, and what to do if you have unexpected side effects. Learn more about managing physical side effects.

Severe side effects can be life threatening. They may occur right away or up to 2 years after treatment ends.

If you are treated with an immune checkpoint inhibitor, it is important that you are aware of these side effects and that you call your doctor right away if they occur. If caught early, they can be treated. The list below describes dangerous side effects and their symptoms.

Side effect: Inflammation of the lung (pneumonitis)

• New or worsening cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Side effect: Inflammation of the liver (hepatitis)
• Yellowing of skin (jaundice)
• Severe nausea or vomiting
• Pain on the right side of your stomach area
• Drowsiness

Side effect: Inflammation of the colon (colitis)

• Diarrhea (loose stools) or more bowel movements than normal
• Blood in stools or black, tarry, or sticky stools
• Severe abdominal pain or tenderness                   

Side effect: Hormone or gland problems, especially the thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands and the pancreas

• Headaches that will not go away
• Extreme tiredness
• Weight gain or weight loss
• Dizziness or fainting
• Changes in mood or behavior, such as decreased sex drive, irritability, or forgetfulness
• Hair loss

Media Contact:
Robert Solomon
Managing Editor | Immunogenetics: Open Access
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