Immunotherapy for skin cancer: what to know

Some skin cancers, including melanoma, may be treated with medicines that release immune brakes or strengthen immune recognition. The treatment is given according to the cancer's type and extent, previous care and test results. It may be used on its own or combined with surgery, radiation or another medicine. Other cancers can also be treated with immunotherapy, including bladder, cervical, bowel, head and neck, liver, lung cancers and lymphoma, but the medicine and reason for treatment differ between diagnoses.

Tell the oncology team about autoimmune illness, organ problems, allergies, previous cancer treatment and all medicines or supplements. Before each visit, note changes in skin, bowel habits, breathing, energy, vision, mood or urination. Protect irritated skin from sun and avoid applying new creams to a treatment area unless advised. Ask how response will be checked and whether a biopsy or scan is needed. Do not stop cancer treatment or self-treat a new rash without advice.

Contact the treatment team promptly for a spreading or painful rash, persistent diarrhoea, new cough, breathlessness, yellow skin, severe tiredness, unusual thirst, reduced urine, vision changes or a severe headache. These may signal inflammation in an organ and need clinical review. Get urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, facial swelling, fainting, confusion or sudden weakness.

Ask which skin cancer type and tumour findings make immunotherapy appropriate, what other options exist, and how the team will judge whether it is helping. Clarify the dosing schedule, likely early symptoms, after-hours contact arrangements and what happens if an immune-related effect develops.