Share This Link

This is the definition of radiotherapy, which is another type of cancer treatment that uses highenergy radiation, such as Xrays or gamma rays, to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiotherapy works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which prevents them from dividing and growing. Radiotherapy can be given externally or internally, depending on the location and size of the tumor.

This is the definition of immunotherapy, which is a newer type of cancer treatment that uses substances that stimulate the body's immune system to fight cancer cells and prevent metastasis. Immunotherapy works by enhancing the natural ability of the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells, or by providing artificial immune system components, such as antibodies or cytokines, that can target specific molecules on cancer cells.

This is the definition of targeted therapy, which is another newer type of cancer treatment that uses drugs that target specific molecules on cancer cells and block their growth and survival signals. Targeted therapy works by interfering with the pathways or processes that are essential for cancer cells to grow, spread, or resist other treatments. Targeted therapy drugs are often used in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy..

These are not common adverse effects of most chemotherapy drugs, but rather of specific drugs that can affect the heart and lungs. Cardiotoxicity is the damage to the heart muscle or valves, which can cause heart failure or arrhythmias. Pulmonary fibrosis is the scarring of the lung tissue, which can cause shortness of breath and coughing. These adverse effects are more likely to occur with drugs such as anthracyclines (doxorubicin) and bleomycin.

These are not common adverse effects of most chemotherapy drugs, but rather of specific drugs that can affect the nerves and skin. Peripheral neuropathy is the damage to the nerves in the hands and feet, which can cause numbness, tingling, burning, or pain. Skin reactions are the changes in the skin appearance or texture, such as rash, dryness, or sensitivity. These adverse effects are more likely to occur with drugs such as taxanes (paclitaxel) and platinum drugs (cisplatin).

These are not common adverse effects of most chemotherapy drugs, but rather of specific drugs that can affect the kidneys and ears. Nephrotoxicity is the damage to the kidney cells or function, which can cause reduced urine output, swelling, or electrolyte imbalance. Ototoxicity is the damage to the inner ear or hearing nerve, which can cause hearing loss or ringing in the ears. These adverse effects are more likely to occur with drugs such as cisplatin and aminoglycosides (amikacin).

This is not a function of filgrastim, but rather of cytoprotective drugs, which are another type of cancer treatment. Cytoprotective drugs work by protecting the kidneys from the harmful effects of chemotherapy drugs, such as cisplatin, which can cause nephrotoxicity (kidney damage). Cytoprotective drugs can prevent or treat nephrotoxicity by increasing urine output, binding to toxic substances, or providing antioxidants⁴.

This is not a function of filgrastim, but rather of erythropoietin, which is another type of colony stimulating factor. Erythropoietin stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. Erythropoietin is used to treat anemia, which is a low level of red blood cells that can be caused by chemotherapy or other conditions. Erythropoietin can increase the oxygencarrying capacity of the blood and reduce the need for blood transfusions in patients with anemia⁵.

This is not a function of filgrastim, but rather of thrombopoietin, which is another type of colony stimulating factor. Thrombopoietin stimulates the production of platelets in the bone marrow. Platelets are cell fragments that help with blood clotting and prevent bleeding. Thrombopoietin is used to treat thrombocytopenia, which is a low level of platelets that can be caused by chemotherapy or other conditions. Thrombopoietin can reduce the risk of bleeding and bruising in patients with thrombocytopenia.

Encouraging the patient to wear a wig, hat, scarf, or turban to cover the scalp can help the patient cope with alopecia by providing warmth, comfort, and protection from sun exposure. It can also help the patient feel more confident and attractive. The patient should choose a head covering that suits their personal style and preference. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of a wig if it is prescribed by a doctor³.

Advising the patient to avoid washing, brushing, or combing the hair excessively can help the patient cope with alopecia by reducing the amount of hair loss and breakage. The patient should use gentle hair care products and avoid harsh chemicals, heat, or styling tools. The patient should also avoid tight hairstyles or accessories that can pull or damage the hair³.

Suggesting the patient to cut the hair short before chemotherapy or shave the head after hair loss begins can help the patient cope with alopecia by giving them a sense of control and preparation. Cutting or shaving the hair can also make the hair loss less noticeable and easier to manage. The patient should consult with their doctor before cutting or shaving their hair, as some chemotherapy drugs may cause scalp sensitivity or irritation³.