Chemotherapy
Description
The treatment of disease by chemicals that kills cells, specifically those of micro-organisms or cancer. It usually refers to antineoplastic drugs used to treat cancer. Chemotherapy can cause anemia causing weakness and fatigue. Other common side effects include a serious decrease in white blood cells or platelets that can result in life threatening infection or bleeding.
Symptoms
Weakness, fatigue, fever, bleeding, cough, breathing problems.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests and X-rays to identify the side effects of the chemotherapy may be done.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- X-Ray
Treatment
Treatment includes: transfusion of red blood cells and/or platelets, and other medications to stimulate the production of white blood cells.
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