Dedication & Passion Bring Bispecific Cancer Immunotherapy to the Community March 7, 2024 Until recently, cutting-edge cancer-fighting medications like bispecific immunotherapy were only available in academic settings or as part of a clinical trial. “Bispecific therapy is a refined cancer immunotherapy which is used to treat more advanced cancer cases,” said Ryan Cain, PA-C, with Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center Hematology & Oncology. “Like other immunotherapies, this treatment harnesses the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells. What’s unique is this new type of immunotherapy targets and attacks cancer cells more effectively by attacking two sites on the cancer cell, hence the name ‘bispecific.’” As with any cancer treatment, bispecific therapy does not come without risk. “Many of the side effects a patient may experience are the same as with traditional immunotherapy,” said Cain. “However, this new class of medication has a higher risk of toxicity and side effects — some which may mimic a severe inflammatory response.” To ensure the right education and safety protocols are in place for patients who need this medication, Cain, along with Anne Webb, cancer program director, worked with hospital administration at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center and the entire Samaritan oncology team. Together, Cain and Webb developed a custom side effect management protocol for patients receiving bispecific therapy as part of their treatment plan. “Our safety net also includes an at-home monitoring kit,” said Cain. “This allows patients to check vitals like oxygen level, temperature and blood pressure, which — if abnormal — may be an indication of something more serious. Plus, patients are seen in the clinic frequently and have access to oncology care 24/7.” With greater risk of severe side effects, patients may wonder if this treatment is best for them. “Bispecific therapy is considered when patients are not responding to other traditional cancer treatments or for patients who have run out of other options,” said Cain. “Response to this form of therapy can be dramatic and some patients can achieve a complete remission, which is remarkable.” Samaritan was the first community-based cancer program in Oregon to offer this cutting-edge treatment. “We are currently focusing this treatment on patients with cancer diagnoses like lymphoma or multiple myeloma, but this list will continue to grow,” said Cain. Learn more about cancer care at Samaritan at samhealth.org/Cancer.
