Bone marrow suppression

Bone marrow suppression or myelotoxicity is a serious side effect of various chemotherapy drugs and certain other medications. It is characterized by a decrease in the ability of the bone marrow to produce blood cells, leading to an increased risk of infection, anemia, and bleeding.

Causes

Bone marrow suppression is most commonly caused by chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of cancer. These drugs work by killing rapidly dividing cells, which includes both cancer cells and healthy cells in the bone marrow. Other medications, such as certain antibiotics and antiviral drugs, can also cause bone marrow suppression.

Symptoms

The symptoms of bone marrow suppression can vary depending on which types of blood cells are affected. A decrease in white blood cells (leukopenia) can lead to an increased risk of infection. A decrease in red blood cells (anemia) can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. A decrease in platelets (thrombocytopenia) can lead to easy bruising, bleeding, and slow wound healing.

Diagnosis

Bone marrow suppression is typically diagnosed through a complete blood count (CBC), which measures the number of each type of blood cell in a sample of blood. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be performed to determine the cause of the suppression.

Treatment

Treatment for bone marrow suppression typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve adjusting the dose of the medication causing the suppression, or switching to a different medication. In severe cases, a bone marrow transplant may be necessary.

Prevention

Prevention of bone marrow suppression primarily involves careful monitoring of blood cell counts in patients receiving medications known to cause this side effect. In some cases, medications may be given to stimulate the production of blood cells in the bone marrow.

See also

• Chemotherapy
• Leukopenia
• Anemia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Bone marrow transplant