Name of the Procedure:

Dacarbazine Administration
Common Name: Dacarbazine
Medical Term: Dacarbazine Injection, 100 mg
HCPCS Code: J9130

Summary

Dacarbazine is a type of chemotherapy drug used to treat certain types of cancer. It is administered via an injection into a vein (intravenously).

Purpose

Dacarbazine is used primarily for treating malignant melanoma and Hodgkin's lymphoma. The goal of the treatment is to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.

Indications

• Malignant Melanoma: An aggressive form of skin cancer.

• Hodgkin's Lymphoma: A type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.

  Patients with these diagnoses who have not responded to other treatments may be candidates for Dacarbazine therapy.

Preparation

• Fasting: There is no need for fasting before Dacarbazine administration.
• Medication Adjustments: Inform your physician about all medications you are currently taking.
• Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests to check liver and kidney function, and complete blood cell counts are typically required before starting therapy.

Procedure Description

1. Venous Access: An intravenous (IV) line is inserted into a vein.
2. Preparation of Dacarbazine: The medication is mixed and prepared by a pharmacist or healthcare provider.
3. Administration: Dacarbazine is given slowly over a period of several minutes to an hour, depending on the dosage and patient tolerance.

4. Monitoring: Vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure.

   Duration

   The infusion typically takes between 15 minutes to 1 hour, but the total time in the clinic may be longer due to preparation and monitoring.

Setting

Dacarbazine administration is usually done in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or dedicated infusion center.

Personnel

• Oncologist: A doctor specializing in cancer treatment.
• Nurse: Administers the drug and monitors the patient.
• Pharmacist: Prepares the medication.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and feeling weak or tired.

• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, liver damage, and significant drop in blood cell counts.

  Complications are managed through symptomatic treatment and close monitoring.

Benefits

• Cancer Control: May slow the progression of cancer or shrink tumors.

• Symptom Relief: Can relieve symptoms related to cancer, improving quality of life.

  Benefits may be noticeable within a few weeks of starting treatment.

Recovery

• Immediate: Post-procedure, patients may rest in the clinic for a short monitoring period.
• Follow-Up: Patients will need regular blood tests and check-ups.
• Restrictions: Fatigue is common; patients may need to reduce physical activities for a few days.

Alternatives

• Other Chemotherapy Drugs: Various other chemotherapy agents may be considered depending on the type and stage of cancer.
• Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.

• Surgery: Removal of cancerous tissue when feasible.

  Each alternative has different pros and cons regarding effectiveness, side effects, and suitability for the patient's specific condition.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients may experience minimal discomfort from the IV insertion; otherwise, the infusion itself is usually painless.
• After the Procedure: Nausea and fatigue are common, and pain management strategies include anti-nausea medication and rest.

Understanding these aspects can help patients prepare for and manage the treatment process effectively.