Having low levels of all three blood cell types — red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets — at the same time is called pancytopenia. This can happen after chemotherapy for lymphoma, as treatment can affect how the bone marrow produces blood cells.
Some common symptoms to watch for with each low Show Full Answer
Having low levels of all three blood cell types — red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets — at the same time is called pancytopenia. This can happen after chemotherapy for lymphoma, as treatment can affect how the bone marrow produces blood cells.
Some common symptoms to watch for with each low blood cell type include:
Low RBCs (anemia):
- Fatigue and weakness
- Paleness
- Shortness of breath
Low WBCs:
- Fever above 100.4°F
- Chills and sweating
- Higher risk of infection
Low platelets:
- Easy bruising
- Excessive bleeding from minor cuts
- Nosebleeds It's really important to flag these results with your oncology team as soon as possible, especially if a fever develops — that would need immediate medical attention.
While some MyLymphomaTeam members have shared anxiety around blood test results post-treatment, many have also found reassurance in staying closely connected with their care team and monitoring results regularly. You're not alone in navigating this.
4 days ago