Oncology Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Oncology, including details on cancer, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy.

Managing hematologic toxicities in the oncology patient.

Montoya L

Leukemia Lymphoma Service, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA. libby.montoya@stjude.org

Myelosuppression associated with antineoplastic therapy may lead to neutropenia, anemia, or both, resulting in an increased risk for infection, fatigue, diminished quality of life, and reduced survival. Neutropenia can result in dose reductions and treatment delays. Hematopoietic growth factors have been used effectively as supportive therapy to reduce antineoplastic therapy-associated neutropenia and anemia. This article discusses management of neutropenia and anemia secondary to antineoplastic therapy, new medications, and nursing considerations.

Published 16 May 2007 in J Infus Nurs, 30(3): 168-72.
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