Supportive Care of the Leukemic Patient

Authors

Ellis J. Van Slyck

Abstract

The outlook for the patient with leukemia or lymphoma has been improved by the exponential expansion of basic scientific knowledge in physical chemistry and microbiology, added to much new clinical information based on large cooperative group studies. Most of this progress derives, not from a specific treatment for the disease, but from better understanding and use of multiple support measures. These include the availability of blood components, such as red blood cell, platelet and granulocyte concentrates, better protective isolation measures, and greater expertise in the recognition and treatment of bacterial, fungal, and viral infections in immunosuppressed patients. In addition, the management of associated metabolic disturbances, such as hyperkalemia, hyperuricemia, and hypercalcemia, is now based on firm ground. A review of the major progress In these various areas of supportive care comprises this essay.

Recommended Citation

Van Slyck, Ellis J. (1975) "Supportive Care of the Leukemic Patient," Henry Ford Hospital Medical Journal : Vol. 23 : No. 3 , 117-128.
Available at: https://scholarlycommons.henryford.com/hfhmedjournal/vol23/iss3/3