Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 5/26/2005

Question
Chemo question

I have a general question about chemo therapy but I need to provide a little back ground in order to properly frame the question.

I have (had) breast cancer resulting in a double mastectomy, radiation, & chemo. Since then, the cancer moved to my liver and I have been undergoing chemo (carboplatin & gemcitabine) on a cycle of chemo each week for two weeks then a week off then repeat.

Now, I have reached the point where my body is not recovering fast enough and I have low platelets – so low that I have had to skip several cycles and my chemo is now on an erratic schedule – given whenever my platelets are high enough.

My specific concern and question is... will this erratic schedule be effective or would it be better to simply stop for a few months and let the body attempt to repair itself and get normal counts again?  My liver tumors have nearly disappeared; one is gone and the other nearly gone.

Any opinion as to whether I should continue this hit or miss schedule or take a few months to recover then resume the chemo?

Thank you in advance for any help, guidance, or pointers to information.

Lila

Answer
This is a HARD question, where I doubt anyone can be sure of having the absolutely true answer! I believe your drs. are trying to treat you as often as possible to avoid - if possible - a regrowth of your daughter tumours. There is a real risk that as you and your platelets recover so will your tumours to the point where they will be difficult to treat at all. However I think no one can be certain of what is best here unfortunately! I'm sorry I can not be of better help!