Fever with agranulocytosis in cancer patients

The article was written by Doctor Nong Ngoc Son - Oncology Center - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital

Agranulocytosis is a medical emergency and one of the complications encountered during cancer treatment, especially chemotherapy.

Granulocytes play an important role as soldiers helping to protect the body from infection. They will surround and destroy foreign microorganisms that enter the body and help the body stay healthy. Therefore, a decrease in the number of granulocytes increases the risk of infection.
Cancer patients, especially those receiving chemotherapy, are at risk for agranulocytosis with fever (called agranulocytosis). The consequences of this condition can lead to sepsis, shock and possibly death. Therefore, post-chemotherapy attention and early detection of symptoms of agranulocytosis are very important.

Usually, agranulocytosis will have no obvious symptoms. However, chemotherapy patients should be closely monitored for symptoms such as chills or fever.
When taking medicines such as steroids or paracetamol can mask the fever. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the symptoms of infection such as:
Flu-like symptoms: Fatigue, muscle aches, runny nose,... Cough, profuse phlegm, wheezing, shortness of breath.

Unusual sweating Vomiting, diarrhea, or painful urination Swelling, heat, redness, pain, or pus discharge at the injection site Pustules on the skin, corners of fingernails, toenails, anus Headache or stiffness throat Sore mouth, discharge or pus in the ears - nose - throat... When you have any of the above symptoms, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible.

In addition to early detection of the above symptoms, you should pay attention to daily activities to prevent infection such as:
Measure your body temperature regularly when you feel cold, sweaty or feel feverish . Eat cooked food, drink boiled water. Should not eat raw fish meat, rare, salad. Fruits and vegetables should be washed before eating. Do not eat and drink on the sidewalk, or drink ice at the restaurant outside. Wash your hands often properly before eating and after using the toilet. Take good care of your teeth and rinse your mouth regularly (3-4 times a day) to prevent mouth sores. Shower every day and do not share towels with others. Wash skin scratches immediately with soap and water, then cover with a bandage to prevent infection. Should wear gloves when gardening and limit contact with animals, garbage bags, flower arrangements... Avoid crowded places or people who are suffering from colds, flu or infectious diseases. If you have catheters (catheters) or other intravenous lines in place, consult your doctors and nurses for instructions on how to care for these lines.