Black and Blue - Normal?

[GinnyB]

Hi All,

I had my first week of Topotecan last week, and now this week, the backs of my hands are black and blue, green and red, (certainly not pretty!). Looks like I've been run over by a truck...all of which I might have expected from five days of needle sticks, at 2x minimum. But, now, I'm getting blood spots just under the skin from something as simple as scratching an itch or brushing against a counter. I think that Topotecan can cause low platelets, but just wondered if anyone else has experienced this. Had no problems with Cisplatin/Etoposide, which carries the same warnings. Any advice? (I'll call Dr. tomorrow)

Thanks,

GinnyB

[Calintay]

I AM NOT FOR SURE BUT I WOULD CALL THE ON-CALL DR. THIS SOUNDS AS IF IT SHOULD NOT WAIT TIL MORNING.

GOOD LUCK ANDLET US KNOW

HEIDI

[laban]

My husband does get very low platelets with Topotecan and does end up with "blood spots/patches" from any little knick or bump. If it looks like it's too much you may want to notify the Dr. How often do you get the Topotecan? Have you had a CBC lately?

[Treebywater]

Definitely sounds like low platelets.

[nyka69]

I agree with the others. Give the doc a call.

My husband had moderately low platelets with carbo/etoposide, but they have been much lower with topotecan. And he's only had one cycle so far.

I will keep you in my thoughts.

[GinnyB]

Hello All:

Thanks for your replies....I'm just back from the Dr., who tells me that CBC show moderately low red/white blood cells and platelets. Going back on Friday for another CBC to see if they're coming up. Until then, have been advised to "take it easy" and quit running into stuff!

Thanks,

GinnyB

[Heather_T]

You might want to ask the doctor about a port. Trust me it is better in the end and it saves your veins. I wish I could have had one put in.