title: Management of myelosuppression in the patient with cancer.
abstract: Bone marrow depression (myelosuppression) in the patient with cancer may result from the disease itself or from its treatment. The consequences of myelosuppression are numerous; the most critical problem that results from leukopenia is infection. Serious clinical consequences follow depression of normal leukocyte function. A clear understanding of the functioning of each type of leukocyte is essential for managing the various complications associated with leukopenia. The three components of myelosuppression management are: prevention of infection, frequent patient assessment for the early detection of infection, and aggressive management when such infection arises. The oncology nurse minimizes patient- and environment-related sources of infection and is aware that detection is complicated by the lack or diminution of signs and symptoms in a leukopenic patient. Infections that arise are managed in different ways, depending on the pathogen and on available therapy. In addition to conventional antimicrobial therapy, newer therapeutic modalities, such as colony-stimulating factors, may hold promise for the treatment of leukopenic patients. The nurse is responsible for many aspects of the care for these patients.
authors.forename: M E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Rostad
mesh_terms: D001855:Bone Marrow Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control; D007239:Infections / Q000209:etiology; D007970:Leukopenia / Q000451:nursing; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000451:nursing*