Immunotherapy infusion overview

Overview

Immunotherapy infusion is a treatment that helps your own immune system fight disease, often given through a needle in a vein (intravenously). It is used for conditions like certain cancers or autoimmune disorders, where the immune system is either not working well enough or is attacking healthy cells.

Immunotherapy infusions are becoming more common as a standard treatment for many types of cancer and some autoimmune diseases.

It can be used for both children and adults, depending on the condition being treated. Your healthcare team will decide if immunotherapy is right for you.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling very tired (fatigue)
• Fever or chills during or after the infusion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Skin rashes or itching
• Flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches or headache

Symptoms in children

• Same common side effects as adults, but children may also have changes in appetite or behavior
• Irritability or crying more than usual

Symptoms in older adults

• May experience more severe fatigue or weakness
• Higher risk of dehydration or confusion

Causes

Main causes

• Immunotherapy is used to treat diseases where the immune system is not working correctly, such as certain cancers (e.g., melanoma, lung cancer) or autoimmune conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis).

Risk factors

• Having a specific type of cancer that may respond to immunotherapy
• Having autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the body
• Previous allergic reactions to infusions or medications

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any emergency symptoms listed above (difficulty breathing, severe allergic reaction, etc.)
• Sudden high fever or signs of infection during treatment

Book a routine appointment if:

• Before starting immunotherapy, to discuss if it is appropriate for your condition
• During treatment, to monitor side effects and adjust care
• After finishing treatment, for follow-up appointments

Diagnosis

Immunotherapy is not a condition, so there is no diagnosis for it. Your doctor will diagnose your underlying condition (like cancer) and then recommend immunotherapy if it is likely to help.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check organ function and immune system status
• Tumor biopsy (taking a small sample of the tumor) to check for markers that predict response
• Imaging scans (CT, MRI) to see the size and location of the disease

What to expect at your appointment

Before your first infusion, your healthcare team will explain the procedure, possible side effects, and what to do if you have a reaction. The infusion is done in a clinic or hospital setting, and you will be monitored during and after each session.

Treatment

Immunotherapy works by teaching your immune system to attack harmful cells or by removing brakes that stop it from working. The treatment is given intravenously, meaning through a vein, on a schedule decided by your doctor.

Self-care at home

• Stay well hydrated before and after your infusion
• Rest when you feel tired, but try to stay gently active on other days
• Eat small, frequent meals if you feel nauseous
• Track and report any side effects to your care team

Medical treatments

Medical treatments include the immunotherapy medications themselves, which are given by infusion. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to prevent or manage side effects, such as antihistamines, steroids, or drugs to control nausea. In some cases, you may receive other treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy alongside immunotherapy. Treatment plans are personalized for each patient.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be used before immunotherapy to remove a tumor, or after to remove any remaining disease. The timing depends on your specific condition and treatment plan. Your surgeon and oncologist will work together to coordinate care.

Living with this condition

You can continue many normal activities during immunotherapy, but you may need to plan around infusion days. Allow time for rest and recovery after each treatment. Keep a symptom diary to discuss with your doctor.

Lifestyle tips

• Get enough sleep and listen to your body’s need for rest
• Stay connected with friends and family – they can help with emotional support
• Avoid crowded places if you are at risk of infection
• Stop smoking and limit alcohol, as these can weaken your immune system

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein to support your immune system. Gentle exercise like walking or yoga can help reduce fatigue and improve mood, but do not push yourself too hard.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Coping with a serious illness and treatment can be stressful. Many people feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed. It is normal to have these feelings. Talk to your healthcare team – they can refer you to a counselor or support group.

Prevention

You cannot prevent the need for immunotherapy if it is medically necessary, but you can reduce the risk of severe side effects by following your care plan carefully and reporting symptoms early.

Screening programmes

Regular blood tests and imaging scans are part of monitoring during treatment. These help catch problems early.

Complications

If left untreated

• Immune-related side effects can become severe if not managed, such as inflammation of the lungs (pneumonitis), colon (colitis), or liver (hepatitis)
• Allergic reactions during infusion can be life-threatening if not treated immediately

Long-term outlook

Immunotherapy has helped many people live longer and better lives, especially with certain cancers. However, not everyone responds equally. Your doctor will monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed. Many side effects are reversible when caught early, and ongoing research continues to improve outcomes.

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