Myelo-suppression in cancer chemotherapy while applying ASCO guideline compatibility

Abstract

While chemotherapy with anticancer drugs is effective, the adverse effects may prevent a continuous therapy. Because myelo-suppression induced by anticancer drugs is a dose-limiting factor. Chemotherapy should therefore be given with consideration to prevent adverse effects and prophylaxis due to decreased blood cell counts.

This study examines the usage of G-CSF in cancer chemotherapy at the University of Tokyo Hospital, and also its adherence to the ASCO Practice Guideline Recommendations for the Use of G-CSF (2006). 125 inpatients, who underwent chemotherapy between April 1 and 14, 2006, participated.

Of these patients, 27 (22%) were given G-CSF, while 98 (78%) were not given G-CSF. Of the 27 patients given G-CSF, 11 (40.7%) had been recommended the use of G-CSF in accordance with the ASCO Practice Guideline Recommendations due to the severity of their conditions , while 16 (59.7%) had not been recommended for G-CSF medication. Of the 98 patients not given G-CSF, 4 patients (4.1%) were not recommended to use G-CSF due to their deteriorating conditions, and the other 94 patients (95.9%) were not administrated G-CSF as their conditions did not warrant it under the ASCO Practice Guideline Recommendations. This study suggests that the G-CSF is more likely to be used for prevention than recommended by the ASCO Practice Guideline Recommendations.