Fever and neutropenia -- how to use a new treatment strategy
Article Abstract:
More research is needed to determine if some cancer patients with neutropenia and fever can be treated with antibiotics on an outpatient basis. Neutropenia is low blood levels of white blood cells, which predisposes patients to infection. The neutropenia is often caused by chemotherapy. Most cancer patients with neutropenia and fever are hospitalized and receive intravenous antibiotics. However, two 1999 studies show that some patients at low risk of infection can take oral antibiotics at home. Outpatient treatment can be risky, and it may be hard to identify low-risk patients.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1999
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Liposomal amphotericin B for empirical therapy in patients with persistent fever and neutropenia
Article Abstract:
Liposomal amphotericin B may be safer than regular amphotericin B in preventing fungal infections in patients with suppressed immune systems. Chemotherapy often suppresses the immune system and cancer patients are routinely given the antifungal drug amphotericin B. However, it has serious side effects. Researchers compared regular amphotericin B with a liposomal form of the drug in 687 patients. The liposomal form of the drug was as effective as the regular form and caused fewer side effects.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1999
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Caspofungin versus liposomal amphotericin B for empirical antifungal therapy in patients with persistent fever and neutropenia
Article Abstract:
The efficacy and safety of caspofungin as compared with liposomal amphotericin B as empirical antifungal therapy is assessed. It is found that caspofungin is as effective as and generally better tolerated than liposomal amphotericin B when given as empirical antifungal therapy in patients with persistent fever and neutropenia.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2004
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