What is thrombocytopenia in cancer treatment?
Thrombocytopenia means the number of platelets in your blood is low. Platelets are the cells that help your blood clot and stop bleeding. When they run low, you may bruise or bleed a lot, or very easily. You may also get tiny purple or red spots on your skin.
Some cancer treatments lower the platelet count and cause thrombocytopenia. Chemotherapy and targeted therapy are two of them. Tell your doctor or nurse if you notice easy bleeding, easy bruising, or the small skin spots.
A few steps may help if your risk is higher. Stay away from medicines that contain aspirin or ibuprofen, since they can raise bleeding risk. Brush gently with a very soft toothbrush. Use an electric shaver instead of a razor. Take care with sharp objects. Call your doctor for serious problems, such as bleeding that will not stop or changes in your head or vision. Your care team can give you a list of medicines to avoid and explain what is safest for you.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Bleeding and Bruising (Thrombocytopenia) in Cancer
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