Understanding adolescent and young adult perspectives on blinatumomab therapy through public social media content

B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is the most common childhood cancer. The addition of blinatumomab (blina), a bi-specific T-cell engager targeting CD19 and CD3, to B-ALL treatment has been associated with improved clinical outcomes when included in the treatment regimen. Studies on blinatumomab’s impact on clinical practice and daily management have reflected healthcare providers, staff, and parental caregivers’ perspectives. However, little is known about adolescents and young adults’ (AYAs) experiences with this clinical innovation, including the associated psychosocial stressors, symptom burden, coping strategies for the infusion and related challenges, and its impact on function and quality of life. This study seeks to fill a critical knowledge gap by analyzing what adolescents with B-ALL (n=6) shared publicly about their experience with blinatumomab infusions in the form of TikTok posts (n=11). By analyzing these findings through a psychosocial lens, pediatric oncology nurses can be better equipped to support adolescents undergoing blinatumomab therapy by addressing community utilization, acknowledging coping mechanisms, and being sensitive to challenges regarding autonomy, body image concerns, and disruption of normalcy.