Chemotherapy

About Chemotherapy

The treatment of disease by chemicals that kill 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, hair loss, sores in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, heart disease

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests and X-rays to identify the side effects of the chemotherapy may be done.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment includes: transfusion of red blood cells and/or platelets, and other medications to stimulate the production of white blood cells. Sometimes, the dose of the chemotherapy may be reduced or stopped due to side effects.

Medical specialties

Hematology and Oncology · Pediatric Hematology and Oncology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Chemotherapy.