Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 4/10/2011

Question
In August, I went to the ER weak, dehydrated, and had vertigo. I also had a mass in my left breast. I had not been to any doctor in years due to financial issues, and my insurance did not cover cancer. I had lost 25 lbs, and had not been able to keep food down for almost 8 months. I was admitted for severe anemia, and to be tested for breast cancer. I received 7 units of blood and iron, during the 2 days I was there. The next day my oncologist told me that I was not reproducing red blood cells, and that my heavy periods were the cause of my blood loss. I was diagnosed with an invasive mucinous carcinoma, which was pure. This diagnosis was surprising, because I am only 35. The average age is 57 for people diagnosed with this form of cancer. I have had chemotherapy, and a bilateral mastectomy. Radiation therapy will begin in about 5 weeks. Could my hormone imbalance have affected the reproduction of my red blood cells? If not, what else could have affected my bone marrow to stop production?

Answer
There are many causes for such a condition, some of them unknown though hormonal imbalance is as far as I know not suspected of being the cause of inability to form red blood cells. Only a thorough investigation can perhaps show the cause of this condition of yours and should if possible be done.



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