Precautions

Neutropenia
Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell (WBC) and plays an important role in the defense against bacterial infections. (There are several kinds of white blood cells, including monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.) Neutropenia is a decrease in neutrophil cell counts in the blood and is a common side effect of chemotherapy for many forms of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, lymphomas and leukemias. Neutropenia and a susceptibility to infection is a primary reason patients cannot adhere to their chemotherapy regimen. Neupogen and Neulasta are medications that stimulate the production of blood forming protein CSF thereby elevating WBC and have proved effective against it. In cases of neutropenia it may be wise to avoid public areas including an exercise center during the flu season and use anti-bacterial soap after using exercise equipment. Mild to moderate joint pain is a common side affect and one that may preclude weight bearing exercise.