Infusion reactions triggered by monoclonal antibodies treating solid tumors.

Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) are potent agents with significant therapeutic advantages and represent the new standard of care in oncology. Although fairly well tolerated, a major health issue with mAbs is the development of infusion reactions that can range in severity from mild to life threatening. Therefore, it is critical to know how to manage these reactions when the first symptoms appear. Oncology nurses need to be proactive in monitoring, assessing, and managing infusion reactions throughout the entire course of therapy. Nurses are also instrumental in developing a protocol on how to address infusion reactions. Building a partnership with patients and caregivers ensures that patients are safely treated and can fully benefit from mAb therapy.