Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Have Hospitalised With Fever, Chills, Petechiae On Lips, Taking Prednisone, Have Low Platelet. Have Polycythemia, Taking Hydroxyurea
My father-in-law was diagnosed with polycythemia a few years ago, and was taking hydroxyurea for it. He has been hospitalized for the past few weeks because of high fever and chills and being really weak. The doctors have done a complete blood test as well as a bone marrow test and haven't been able to find anything abnormal except for the fact that now he has low platelet counts! I can't find anything that mentions both of these in the same patient.
I am a bit concerned because he has also developed very small petechiae on his lips which he's taking some prednisone for it now.
Thanks for your help
I am a bit concerned because he has also developed very small petechiae on his lips which he's taking some prednisone for it now.
Thanks for your help
Sat, 22 Jun 2013
Hi,
I am surprised that your doctor didnt tell your father-in-law to come in for regular blood tests, as a major side effect of hydroxyurea is infections as a result of the effect it has on the bone marrow.
I am assuming he is now off the hydroxyurea, so as such his bone marrow should start working normally again and his white blood cells will increase that should help in his condition.
Also ask them why they are giving him prednisone, as yes it is given for infections. But i am not clear on how it helps your father-in-law's condition.
Hope this answered your question.
I am surprised that your doctor didnt tell your father-in-law to come in for regular blood tests, as a major side effect of hydroxyurea is infections as a result of the effect it has on the bone marrow.
I am assuming he is now off the hydroxyurea, so as such his bone marrow should start working normally again and his white blood cells will increase that should help in his condition.
Also ask them why they are giving him prednisone, as yes it is given for infections. But i am not clear on how it helps your father-in-law's condition.
Hope this answered your question.
I find this answer helpful
1 Doctor agrees with this answer
Note: Do you have more questions on diagnosis or treatment of blood disorders? Ask An Expert/ Specialist Now
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Complete blood count
Loading Online Doctors....