How quickly does growth factor support relieve unexplained fever?

Growth factors can stimulate production of particular blood cells, depending on the medicine prescribed. They may be used to support recovery from treatment-related low counts, but they do not replace evaluation for infection or other causes of fever. A clinician may review your temperature, symptoms, medicines, blood results and treatment schedule before deciding what support is needed.

Follow your oncology team's fever instructions and use a reliable thermometer if advised. Call the treatment service promptly when you have a raised temperature or feel suddenly unwell, even if the fever improves. Do not take fever-reducing medicine or delay contact unless your team has told you how to use it, because it may hide a change in your condition.

Fever during cancer treatment can require urgent assessment, particularly with chills, confusion, marked weakness, breathlessness, dizziness, or a new cough, urinary symptom or wound problem. Follow the emergency instructions supplied by your oncology team rather than waiting for a growth factor injection to work.

What temperature or symptoms should trigger an immediate call? Is growth factor support intended to prevent low blood counts, treat them, or both? Which medicines should I avoid before speaking with the team?