THE REDUCTION OF WHITE BLOOD CELLS AND PLATELETS
Why do white blood cells and platelets decrease?
Chemotherapy impacts all cells that multiply rapidly, not just the ones affected by cancer. These include white blood cells and platelets.
How long does the reduction of these cells last?
It can last for days and it usually happens between one cycle and another of chemotherapy (around the 12th-14th day from the start of therapy).
Is it dangerous?
The reduction of white blood cells and platelets can cause infections and haemorrhages. While undergoing chemotherapy, it is important to avoid unnecessary exposure to possible agents of infection by following these guidelines: avoid crowded places; wash your hands often; do not use public toilets; avoid contact with children that have recently had a polio vaccination, rubella, mumps and measles; take care to disinfect small abrasions and cuts.
Are there drugs that can help with the reduction of white blood cells?
Yes! Currently there are very effective drugs (referred to as “growth factors”) to treat and prevent the reduction of white blood cells.
How do these drugs work?
They stimulate the bone marrow to produce white blood cells.
Do these drugs have possible side effects?
Yes they can induce joint and bone pain for a few days. In some case they can lead to a fever.
What can you do in this case?
Tell your doctor and take the medicine that he/she prescribes. Usually an analgesic or fever- reducing drugs are sufficient.
What should you do if your white blood cells and platelets decrease?
Take drugs prescribed by your doctor; avoid contact with people with infections even commonplace ones such as the cold, flu, and bronchitis; favour cooked foods, avoid milk, fruit and fresh vegetables; maintain scrupulous personal hygiene paying particular attention to your mouth and to the mucous membrane; wash your hands frequently especially before meals and after going to the toilet.
When is it necessary to immediately contact your doctor?
If you have one of the following: a fever; a burning sensation while urinating; a persistent cough; vaginal secretions or a burning sensation in the vagina; haemorrhages, even small ones, or bruises.
If there is a reduction of your white blood cells and platelets is hospitalisation necessary?
Not always. Every situation should be evaluated by a doctor in order to decide, according to the patient’s condition, what treatment to recommend and to deal with eventual complications.