How to Monitor TKI and ALK Inhibitor Side Effects

I take a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) pill that brings various changes to my body that I should watch for regularly. The side effects of my cancer treatment may impact my body in different ways. A dose reduction or temporary pause of my ALK inhibitor or my TKI can be an immediate solution.

I am responsible for reporting any changes regarding my condition as soon as possible to my cancer care team. In return, they will do the same on their end to let me know of any immediate health concerns.

Monitoring common TKI side effects

Every other month, my oncologist requests a complete blood chemistry panel. The complete blood count monitors potential complications brought on by my TKI with respect to my liver and kidney functions. I need to report right away if nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, loss of appetite, or diarrhea occurs. My oncologist and pharmacist always bring these common symptoms to my attention so I am aware of the possibility of experiencing them.

Tracking progress and managing anemia

My oncologist compares all my current scans and bloodwork to my baseline and previous results. Remarkably, for several years, my TKI has given me stable scans and good bloodwork readings.

My main challenge has been my borderline anemia. A dose reduction of my TKI has helped me maintain an acceptable hemoglobin count. However, the anxiety of waiting for results and embracing the latest updates keeps me on my toes or sometimes shakes my inner peace.

The power of a collaborative medical team

My cancer specialist looks after any cancer-related side effects that may arise, while my family physician takes care of my treatments for high blood pressure and diabetes, including my annual non-cancer checkup. Both of my health superheroes are quite responsible and professional in looking after my overall health. They know their boundaries in looking after my health needs, and best of all, they are working together to give me a decent quality of life.

Watching for uncommon and unexpected changes from TKI

Since my diagnosis, my cancer care team has told me to expect uncommon changes like swallowing difficulty, voice changes, loss of taste, joint pain, nail problems, blood clots, or facial/leg swelling. In my lung cancer support groups, I witness patients having these changes. With my regular monitoring through bloodwork, scans, and physical checkups, I hope these uncommon changes will not happen to me. Should they happen, I am hopeful that a resolution is available as needed.

My cancer care team also emphasizes the possibility of weight loss or damage to bones or muscles. Additionally, they said my lung cancer can spread to other parts of my body. There was a scare when they saw tumors on my liver and breast; thankfully, they are benign. On top of these concerns, my family has a history of hypertension and diabetes, which I was diagnosed with recently.

Looking toward the future

Undergoing lung cancer treatment poses unending and different changes. But with the right care, proper communication, and effective treatment, my survival will continue for many more years.