Doxil side effects

[Azl49]

Hello All,
I am new to this forum. I have ovar ca and currently on chemo with doxil. I've had three infusions done and developed mild  but gradually increasing  hand-foot syndrome. It started after 2nd IV, now the symptoms are tingling, some burning and some swelling in fingers but no pain. Per NCI classification, it classifies as grade 1 and no change in Doxil dosage is recommended anyway. I saw cases (on Internet) that it may erupt suddenly  into grade 4 with every next infusion (some scary pics there). Anybody experienced really bad skin side effects with Doxil? Would it go away completely after chemo finishes? Anyone had positive effects from topical steroids? I would try them first before --if they help-- before other options. I am seeing my oncologist next week, after infusion #4 and obviously want to complete this chemo cycle with no interruption. This forum is great , thank you all for being so supportive to each other.

[HVAC]

Alla

All of us have carcinoma. These reports are complicated. Few doctors translate them word for word. I thought I had germ cell because a study I was in said germ cell like which turns out is different than germ cell. I asked an my doctor explained I do not have germ cell.

Alex

[Azl49]

Thanks, Alex.
I looked again at my biopsy report and googled for "carcinoma" definition. It means specifically "epithelian" and I thought it meant any cancer cell. Stupid me! One have to keep learning, that is the lesson. Thanks again, Alla

[HVAC]

They found the clear cell when they put the cells under a microscope during my surgery and then again when they did the Pathology. They would have found it with your original biopsy. The cells look clear. Only 5% of the 2% of women who get ovarian have clear cell. It usually does not respond to chemo but thank God in my case chemo has worked well. I do not think you have to worry.

Keep me posted as to how it goes.

Alex

[Azl49]

Thanks, Alex. I went to my infusion today, hauling a cooler with ice packs. It went well, swelling and redness as usual but not getting worse so far. I have another question for you. In an earlier post, you mentioned that you have a rare form of OC, germ or clear cell. What test did they do to determine that? I read my biopsy reports (one from my ascites fluid, another -postoperative) and there is no mentioning of the type of cells. I wonder if such tests are available in a university based clinics but not in the run-of-the-mill regional hospitals (as you mentioned you are with Duke). I really admire your strength and positiveness in going through life with this illness and wish you all the best.

[HVAC]

I had the worst case scenario with Doxil. It was like a sunburn all over. Blisters that popped. I was on vacation and did not tell my doctors in time.They reduced the dosage and I took oral steroids starting the day of my infusion and no more issues. I did the steroids from then on with no more issues. I was on Doxil for over a year. Yes the issues go away with in weeks or a month and never come back. It is not permanent. You can also put ice packs on your hands and feet during chemo.

Alex