Many of the side effects of chemotherapy cannot be detected during a physical examination, but can be discovered through laboratory analysis of blood samples. Because of this, your physician may ask that you have your blood drawn on a regular schedule during your treatment regimen. Listed below is a list of important information regarding necessary blood tests during chemotherapy.
- When you are receiving chemotherapy, your physician may ask you to get a weekly CBC (complete blood count). This is usually performed on the same day each week at our lab or one of our office locations and is reviewed byyour physician.
- Prior to chemotherapy treatment you will need a CBC that day or the day before. This is usually done in the office on the day of your visit.
- Please ensure that you list your schedule of laboratory visits on the calendar you use to list your office visits to help avoid missed laboratory studies.
- If you are receiving radiation therapy and our office is performing your CBC, we can give you a copy and/or fax a copy to the radiation therapy center.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your blood counts, please refer to our section on You & Your Blood. If you have any additional questions, feel free to discuss them with your oncology nurse or physician.
