I am mid 1st line chemo treatment for hgsoc 3b, have completed 3 rounds of carbo and started nab-paclitaxel 2 weeks ago after bad reactions to 3 other drugs. I am struggling with low neutrophil count, on and off. Seems to also be related to catching colds. Today it was the lowest I’ve had so far (0.8) and I could not have my infusions. What’s your experience with this issue - does it usually bounce back reasonably fast? Is there anything I can eat or take to boost the count? Can it lead to a complete treatment stop?
Many thanks 🙏
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Lara1
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Hi , my neutrophil count dropped during chemotherapy, after 3 rd cycle chemo was delayed until count picked up (delayed by 7 days). I had carboplatin only. I was advised to eat healthy diet, plenty of protein, no supplements. Sorry you’re having a rough time with colds on top of treatment.
Unfortunately it did not pick up enough after 7 days so I’ve now been off treatment for 2 weeks. It’s most likely the 2 Abraxane infusions I had recently that killed my count. I was doing reasonably ok on carbo before it. So now I have to have Filgrastim injections on top to be able to have the treatment. I honestly don’t know if more is better. It’s so hard to decide what is best. How are you doing?
Oh Blimey Laura I was hoping your count would pick up. I do think those injections will help, just not nice having to inject yourself. How many more carbo have you to go? Just wondering if you are due a CT scan too ? I’m ok thanks, still feeling fatigue and slightly nauseous, but overall I think the side effects from the maintenance treatment is settling down. It’s been snowing here so staying indoors and keeping warm. Take care xx
As Nordic5 mentions, Filgrastim is usually given by the hospital if neutrophils get too low - these are pre filled injections that you give yourself at home, usually for three or five days after a chemo treatment. Ask your oncologist about them.
Twice, they sent me home with the Meulasta auto-injector.
“To avoid neutropenia, a diet focused on well-cooked meats, canned or frozen fruits and vegetables, pasteurized dairy products, and avoiding raw or undercooked foods like fresh produce, raw meat, fish, and eggs is recommended, as these can harbor bacteria that could potentially harm a compromised immune system; always consult your healthcare provider for specific dietary guidance based on your individual situation. ”
So you had 2 injections in total? They gave me one in the hospital and a 2nd today at home but the nurse was saying they want to treat me weekly after each chemo session. It feels like adding an extra worry given there are side effects to these meds and a risk of spleen rupture and leukemia.
I have auto neurophenia which means I had it before my diagnosis so my neutrophils are always low but before I have treatment if I really low they boost the immune system up with gcfc injection this requires another blood test after before next treatment hope this helps xx
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