Recognizing and Evaluating Diarrhea in Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

This video was supported by Gilead Sciences, Inc., but editorially independently created by the Oncology Nursing News team.

NP Theresa Stukus and NP Nelli Zafman introduce the second clinical scenario, focusing on the evaluation and management of new-onset diarrhea in a patient with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC) receiving sacituzumab govitecan in combination with an immune checkpoint inhibitor. The faculty emphasizes the importance of conducting a thorough assessment to identify the underlying cause of diarrhea, including evaluation for infectious etiologies, treatment-related gastrointestinal toxicity, and immune-mediated colitis. NP Zafman discusses key clinical considerations such as symptom onset, severity, timing relative to treatment, associated gastrointestinal symptoms, hydration status, and prior treatment history to help differentiate between potential causes. The discussion highlights the importance of early recognition, prompt diagnostic evaluation, and appropriate intervention to minimize complications while maintaining treatment continuity. NP Stukus and NP Zafman also underscore the critical role of oncology nurse practitioners in patient education, symptom triage, and coordinating timely multidisciplinary management for patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer experiencing gastrointestinal toxicities.