Name of the Procedure:

Injection, daratumumab 10 mg and hyaluronidase-fihj
Common name: Daratumumab injection
Medical term: Daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj subcutaneous injection

Summary

This procedure involves injecting a combination of the cancer medication daratumumab and the enzyme hyaluronidase directly under the skin. It is commonly used to treat certain types of blood cancer, specifically multiple myeloma.

Purpose

Daratumumab is used in patients with multiple myeloma to help reduce the number of cancer cells in the body. The addition of hyaluronidase helps the body absorb daratumumab more easily. The goal is to slow down or stop the growth of cancerous cells, relieve symptoms, and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Indications

• Patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma who have shown insufficient response to other treatments
• Patients for whom intravenous infusion of daratumumab is not suitable
• Symptoms such as bone pain, anemia, and kidney dysfunction associated with multiple myeloma

Preparation

• Patients are advised to stay hydrated before the injection.
• Pre-medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and acetaminophen are usually given to minimize allergic reactions.
• Certain baseline blood tests may be required to ensure the procedure is safe.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is asked to sit or lie down comfortably.
2. Pre-medications are administered orally or intravenously.
3. The injection site (usually the abdominal area) is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
4. A healthcare professional injects a pre-measured dose of daratumumab and hyaluronidase under the skin using a syringe.

5. The injection site is monitored for any immediate adverse reactions.

   Duration

   The entire procedure, including pre-medication and monitoring, typically takes about 2 to 3 hours.

Setting

This procedure is generally performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital setting.

Personnel

• Oncologist or hematologist
• Registered nurses
• Pharmacists
• Possibly an anesthesiologist if sedation is required

Risks and Complications

• Common: Injection site reactions, fatigue, nausea, and headache
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions, infections, blood cell count abnormalities, and respiratory issues
• Management: Most side effects are managed with medications and close monitoring by healthcare professionals

Benefits

• Promotes cancer cell death and reduces tumor burden
• Alleviates symptoms associated with multiple myeloma
• Potentially improves survival rates and quality of life

Recovery

• Patients are usually observed for at least 30 minutes post-injection for any adverse reactions.
• Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site may occur, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Patients can generally return to normal activities within a few hours.
• Regular follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor the patient’s progress.

Alternatives

• Intravenous daratumumab infusion
• Other chemotherapy regimens
• Stem cell transplant
• Pros: Alternative methods are available for patients who cannot tolerate injections.
• Cons: Other treatments may require longer administration times, higher side-effect profiles, or may not be as effective.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Patients may feel a slight pinch or pressure at the injection site.
• After the procedure: Some may experience mild discomfort or redness at the injection site, which should subside within a few hours.
• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold packs can help alleviate any minor post-procedure pain. Injected area should be protected from excessive pressure or trauma for a few days.