Name of the Procedure:

Injection, Dactinomycin, 0.5 mg
Common Names: Dactinomycin injection, Actinomycin D injection
Technical/Medical Term: Chemotherapy injection with Dactinomycin

Summary

Dactinomycin injection involves administering the chemotherapy drug dactinomycin into a vein. This medication is used to treat certain types of cancer by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

Purpose

Medical Conditions:

• Certain cancers such as Wilms' tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, and gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.
• Other uses as deemed appropriate by the oncologist.

Goals:

• To kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
• To reduce tumor size and spread.
• To improve patient survival rates and quality of life.

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Diagnosed cancers that are known to respond to dactinomycin treatment.
• Specific tumor types or locations as indicated by an oncologist.

Patient Criteria:

• Patients who have not responded to other cancer treatments.
• Patients in need of targeted chemotherapy.

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Fasting may not be required, but follow the oncologist’s instructions.
• Inform the healthcare team of any current medications or supplements.
• Blood tests to monitor liver and kidney function and overall health.
• Possibly imaging tests to assess the cancer.

Procedure Description

1. Intravenous Access: A nurse will place an IV line into a vein.
2. Preparation of Drug: The dactinomycin dose will be measured and prepared carefully in a sterile environment.
3. Administration: The drug is administered slowly through the IV line. The rate of administration and duration can vary based on protocols but usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
4. Monitoring: The patient will be monitored for any immediate adverse reactions during and after the infusion.

Tools/Equipment:

• Sterile syringes and needles.
• IV line and infusion pump, if necessary.

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not typically required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-20 minutes for the drug administration, but with preparation and observation, the entire visit may last 1-2 hours.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in:

• Hospital oncology department.
• Outpatient oncology clinics.

Personnel

• Oncologist (supervising).
• Oncology nurse (administering the injection).
• Pharmacist (preparing the medication).

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Mouth sores.
• Loss of appetite.

Rare Risks:

• Severe allergic reactions.
• Decreased blood cell counts leading to increased infection risk, anemia, or bleeding issues.
• Liver or kidney damage.

Benefits

• Reduction in the size and spread of cancer.
• Potential improvement in survival and quality of life.
• Retreating cancer for recurrent conditions or metastasis.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Hydrate well.
• Follow a balanced diet.
• Rest as needed.
• Monitor for and report any concerning symptoms such as fever or unusual bleeding.

Expected Recovery Time:

• Varies; patients can usually resume normal activities in a day or two but may experience side effects for several days.

Restrictions and Follow-Ups:

• Regular blood tests and follow-up visits to assess response to treatment and manage side effects.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Surgical removal of the tumor.
• Alternative chemotherapy drugs.
• Radiation therapy.
• Immunotherapy.

Pros and Cons:

• Surgery can provide immediate removal but may not be suitable for all patients.
• Other chemotherapy drugs may be used but have their own side effect profiles.
• Radiation and immunotherapy can be effective but may also have different risks and benefits.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: You might feel a slight prick when the IV is inserted.
• After Procedure: You may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects. Pain management strategies and anti-nausea medications can be provided.