How does growth factor support work?

Cancer treatment can reduce the bone marrow's production of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. A white cell growth factor acts like a signal for the marrow to increase production and release of these cells. It may be offered after chemotherapy or around another treatment when the team considers the risk of a low neutrophil count significant.

The medicine is commonly given as an injection under the skin, with timing chosen around the cancer treatment schedule. It does not treat the cancer itself and does not remove every infection risk. Bone or muscle aches can occur as the marrow becomes more active; your team can explain which pain relief is suitable for you.

Follow the appointment or injection instructions closely and keep a record of doses. Do not change the timing, skip a dose, or take an extra dose without speaking with the oncology team. Check how to store and handle the medicine if you inject it at home. Ask whether you need blood tests before the next treatment and what temperature threshold your centre uses for urgent contact.

A fever during cancer treatment can signal a serious infection, especially when neutrophils are low. Contact your oncology service urgently for an unexplained fever, chills, shaking, new cough, breathlessness, confusion, or feeling suddenly very unwell. Do not wait for the next clinic visit or assume the growth factor has removed the danger.

Why am I being offered growth factor support? When should it be given relative to treatment? Which side effects should I report? How will you check my blood counts, and what should I do if I develop a fever?