Managing Hematologic Toxicities in the Oncology Patient

In Brief 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. 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.