Maintaining strict personal hygiene is very important. Antibacterial soap can be used to combat skin bacteria, and the mouth should be kept clean. Anaemia and thrombocytopaenia are common and patients should be encouraged to recognise and report symptoms such as lethargy, headaches, nose bleeds and bruising. Red blood cell and platelet transfusions are required to correct these symptoms. Hearing loss may be permanent however, tinnitus is usually reversible.
Symptoms usually reverse several months after completion of treatment.
More severe symptoms include, muscle weakness, poor co-ordination and unsteadiness. Symptoms should be reported to a doctor. Renal toxicity.- Cisplatin is frequently given with large doses of intravenous fluids to protect the kidneys. Blood tests are taken before and after treatment to assess renal function. CanCare has been prepared for educational purposes only and is not designed to provide medical advice or professional services.