Name of the Procedure:

Injection of Pertuzumab, 1 mg

Summary

This procedure involves administering a medication called pertuzumab, commonly used in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer. Pertuzumab works by targeting specific proteins found on the surface of cancer cells and inhibiting their growth.

Purpose

Pertuzumab is typically used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer. Its primary goal is to slow down or stop the progression of the disease, shrink tumors, and improve the patient's survival rate.

Indications

• HER2-positive breast cancer, either metastatic or in the early stages
• Patients who have shown responsiveness to HER2-targeted therapy
• Cases where other treatments have proven ineffective or insufficient

Preparation

• Fasting is generally not required.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking.
• Baseline diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies, may be needed to assess the extent of cancer.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be seated comfortably.
2. A healthcare professional will clean the injection site, usually on the upper arm.
3. Using a sterile syringe, the pertuzumab solution is injected directly into the bloodstream.
4. The procedure is typically quick, lasting only a few minutes.

Tools, equipment, or technology: Sterile syringe, needle, antiseptic wipes

Anesthesia: Not usually required, as this is a straightforward injection procedure.

Duration

The injection itself takes only a few minutes, but the overall appointment may last about 30 minutes to account for preparation and observation time.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or oncology center.

Personnel

• Oncologist
• Registered Nurse or Medical Assistant
• Pharmacist for medication preparation

Risks and Complications

• Common: Injection site reactions (redness, swelling), nausea, fatigue
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions, infusion reactions, cardiac issues, or neutropenia

Benefits

The expected benefits include slowing the progression of HER2-positive breast cancer, shrinking the tumor size, and potentially extending the patient’s life. Benefits may be realized within a few weeks to months of regular treatment.

Recovery

• Post-injection, patients may be observed for a short period to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions.
• Patients can typically resume normal activities shortly after the injection.
• Follow-up appointments and additional treatments will be scheduled as necessary.

Alternatives

• Other HER2-targeted therapies (e.g., trastuzumab)
• Chemotherapy
• Surgery
• Radiation therapy

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Some alternatives may have different side effect profiles or efficacy rates.
• Combination therapies are often considered depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel a slight prick or discomfort at the injection site. Post-procedure, common experiences include mild fatigue and possible nausea, which can be managed with appropriate medication and rest. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relief as needed, and comfort measures include lying down and staying hydrated.