3. Neutropenia and Cancer Treatment – A Delicate Balance
Chemotherapy, a common cancer treatment, often causes neutropenia. It targets rapidly dividing cells, which include cancer cells and neutrophils. This side effect can limit the ability to continue chemotherapy at full intensity.
Regular blood tests are crucial during chemotherapy. They help track neutrophil levels and adjust treatment as needed. This monitoring is essential to balance cancer treatment efficacy and infection risk.
Growth factor drugs are commonly used to stimulate neutrophil production. In some cases, chemotherapy doses are adjusted. Prophylactic antibiotics may also be prescribed to prevent infections.
Neutropenia can lead to delays or dose reductions in chemotherapy. This can affect the overall effectiveness of cancer treatment. Managing neutropenia is therefore a key aspect of cancer care, ensuring both effective treatment and patient safety. (3)
