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Leukemia Treatment Options
Side Effects of Cancer Treatments
Severe Anemia
The main side effects of leukemia chemotherapy treatment are severe anemia (the risk of bleeding from a low platelet count) and a high likelihood of infection. This is caused because:
(1) acute myelogenous leukemia decreases the production of normal blood cells, and
(2) the levels are further decreased by the added effects of chemotherapy.
The intensity of chemotherapy required to destroy sufficient leukemia cells to permit a remission leads to even more severe decreases in red cells, phagocytes, and platelets. To reduce the side effects of severe anemic or the reduction or red cell blood transfusions are given. A platelet transfusion is usually effective in providing sufficient amounts of these cells until the beneficial effects of treatment occur several weeks later, and blood cell counts return toward normal.
Physical Symptoms & Prevention
A rise in temperature or chills may be the only signs of infection in a patient with a very low white blood cell concentration. Persistent coughing, tenderness at a site prone to infection like the area surrounding the anus or facial sinuses, sore throat, pain on urination or frequent loose stools may be signs of an infection.
The risk of infection can be decreased by vigorous hand washing by all visitors and medical personnel and meticulous care of indwelling catheter sites. Care of the gums, a site of bacterial accumulation, also is an important area of infection prevention.
The use of blood cell growth factors that stimulate the production of phagocytes can shorten the period during which the white cell count is low. Those used most frequently are granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF).
Chemotherapy affects tissues that require a high rate of cell birth (cell division) to keep them functional. The lining of the mouth, the lining of the intestines, the skin, and the hair follicles are such tissues. This explains why mouth ulcers, diarrhea, and hair loss are common after chemotherapy. Skin rashes also may occur.
Nausea and vomiting can be distressing side effects of chemotherapy. The causes are complex. The effects are the result of actions on the intestines and on centers of the brain which, when triggered, lead to vomiting. Fortunately, drugs that counteract the nausea and vomiting can relieve these distressing side effects in most cases, if they occur.
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Coping with Leukemia
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Leukemia Cancer Information