What is growth factor support done with?

Cancer treatment can temporarily reduce the bone marrow's production of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps respond to infection. White cell growth factors act on marrow cells and encourage neutrophil production and release into the bloodstream.

The medicine may be used after selected chemotherapy plans, when a person has a particular risk of low neutrophils, or in response to a low blood count. It may be given as an injection under the skin or through another planned method. The timing is coordinated with cancer treatment and blood-count checks.

Use each dose exactly as prescribed and attend blood tests so the team can follow your counts. Tell the team about bone pain, fever, new medicines, and any history of spleen problems. Keep the injection instructions available if doses are given at home, and ask what to do if a dose is late or missed.

During cancer treatment, contact your oncology team immediately for a measured fever or chills, even if you have received growth factor support. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, sudden left upper abdominal or shoulder pain, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Ask why support is recommended, when the injection should be given in relation to treatment, which blood counts will be checked, and which symptoms require an immediate call.