My mother is just starting kemotherapy for Cancer. They want to give her transfusions from what I understand because of the buildup of chemicals in her blood. Is there an alternative to this procedure she could ask for?

Attached are three articles explaining the use of EPO(which stimulates the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells) that can be used by the oncologist in treating cancer patients. A careful balancing chemo regimen must be followed for a patient who will not accept a blood transfusion. Thus, it is very important to find an oncologist who has experience in treating patients without blood. Is there a Bloodless Medicine Program in your city? They should be able to assist you in finding such a physician. Hope this is helpful.

Attached Files

	effect of EPO on chemotherapy induced anemia.pdf (852.1 KB, 17 views)
	Managing Anemia in the Cancer Patient - Oncologist 7-02.pdf (127.0 KB, 13 views)
	EPO for anemia of chemotherapy - Rev Prescr 12-01.pdf (459.1 KB, 13 views)

__________________
Jorge Martinez
Manager
Bloodless Medicine and Surgery Program
Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center
Chula Vista, CA
Toll free - 866-USE NO BLOOD (866-873-6625)
619-482-4037

Dear chemotherapy inquirer,

I agree with the previous response to your question regarding chemotherapy treatment for your mother. I also would like to add, if you are having any problems locating a local Bloodless Center or for that matter do not know how to find one, please indicate which city you are from and perhaps we can assist you in locating a Center near you. If there is no Center in your locality I feel certain that our Hematologist/Oncologist would be more than happy to speak with your mothers physician regarding treatment protocol for patients who refuse blood transfusions. Send me an e-mail.