Has anyone experienced worsening pericardial and pleural effusions while on Xalkori? Been on it 6 months and have noticed deeper breathing, chest and back pressure, bad headache and gassiness that came on this week. Thought it was anxiety for pet scan I had done earlier in the week but it has definitely continued even after getting a much blessed stable report. I work in ultrasound and snuck a quick peek and saw more pericardial effusion than normal and what appeared to be s pleural effusion at quick glance. I went to my primary doctor who wants me to get a fall bladder ultrasound and I have a follow up appt next week with my oncologist to go over pet results/bloodwork. I'm just curious if anyone else has experienced these symptoms that feel like a big bubble is in your chest that just won't Pop? With the bad headaches and little congestion I've recently been dealing with I wonder if a virus could do something like this? I just know I feel funny and uncomfortable and don't want to miss something that could quickly become problematic.
Xalkori and effusions - 1268930
afellner
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Reply # - March 15, 2015, 05:15 PM
Hi afellner,
Hi afellner,
I don't know that any of these symptoms, taken together or individually, would conclusively indicate Xalkori as their cause. Effusions increasing in size are not necessarily an indication of progressing cancer, especially in light of a stable PET scan. In fact, clinical trials don't generally consider them as evidence of progression which would warrant a change of treatment. Though it's easy to attribute any new symptoms to cancer, viruses and other maladies happen to cancer patients just as they do to the general population.
I think it's good that you are following up with your doctor, and I hope you can find a relatively easily treatable cause soon, and feel better soon.
JimC
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