Injection, tafasitamab-cxix, 2 mg
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Injection of tafasitamab-cxix, 2 mg (C9070)
Common name(s): Tafasitamab injection
Technical/medical term: Tafasitamab-cxix injection
Summary
An injection of tafasitamab-cxix is a medical procedure where a synthesized antibody is administered intravenously to help treat certain types of cancers, specifically B-cell malignancies.
Purpose
Tafasitamab-cxix is used to treat certain types of B-cell cancers, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The goal of the procedure is to target and destroy cancer cells, thereby reducing tumor size and slowing the progression of the disease.
Indications
- Patients diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)
- Cases where other treatments have not been effective
- Individuals who meet specific criteria set by their oncologist based on the stage and behavior of the cancer
Preparation
- Patients may be instructed to fast for several hours before the injection.
- Adjustments in current medications might be required; patients should discuss all medications with their healthcare provider.
- Diagnostic assessments like blood tests and imaging studies may be needed to evaluate the patient's condition.
Procedure Description
- The healthcare provider prepares the injection by diluting tafasitamab-cxix with a sterile solution.
- An intravenous (IV) line is inserted into the patient’s vein, usually in the arm.
- The tafasitamab-cxix solution is administered slowly through the IV over a specified period.
- The patient is monitored throughout the infusion for any adverse reactions.
Equipment used includes sterile needles, syringes, IV fluids, and monitoring devices. No sedation or general anesthesia is typically required, though local anesthetics may be used to minimize discomfort at the IV site.
Duration
The procedure usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, including preparation and monitoring time.
Setting
This procedure is typically performed in a hospital outpatient clinic or an oncology treatment center.
Personnel
- Oncologist or hematologist to oversee the treatment
- Registered nurse to administer the injection and monitor the patient
- Pharmacist to prepare the tafasitamab-cxix solution
Risks and Complications
Common risks include:
- Mild to moderate infusion reactions (fever, chills, rash)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue Rare but serious complications include:
- Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
- Low blood cell counts leading to increased infection risk
- Organ toxicity
Benefits
Expected benefits include reduced tumor size, slowed progression of cancer, and potential remission. These benefits can be observed over several months of treatment and post-treatment monitoring.
Recovery
Post-procedure instructions typically involve:
- Monitoring for immediate side effects for a couple of hours after the infusion
- Hydration and rest
- Taking prescribed medications to manage side effects
- Scheduling follow-up appointments to assess response to treatment and adjust care plan accordingly
Alternatives
- Chemotherapy: Uses chemicals to kill cancer cells.
- Pros: Well-known effectiveness
- Cons: Higher side effects
- Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy particles to destroy cancer cells.
- Pros: Localized treatment
- Cons: Can damage surrounding healthy tissue
- Immunotherapy: Uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
- Pros: Can be less toxic than chemotherapy
- Cons: Variable effectiveness
Patient Experience
Patients may experience a range of sensations, from mild to moderate discomfort, during the injection. Pain management strategies include local anesthetics and anti-inflammatory medication. It's common to feel tired after the procedure and to take it easy for the rest of the day.