Drop in hemoglobin

Just had our first round of temodar on the monthly cycle.  Finished Friday...already the dehydration has put us in the hospital.  Her labs from 10 AM Monday showed hemoglobin of 9.3.  Labs Tuesday night around 12 midnight showed a drop to 7.2.  I find this quite disturbing.  I know that chemo has an effect on it, but less than 48 hours and a drop 2 points.  Also, it's only 4-5 days post chemo. I had really expected to see the number drop more like week 2-3.  Anyone have any experience with a rapid drop like this?  Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Cris

Can't help you with that but just wanted you to know I am thinking of you!

Holly

Thank you Holly ~ it does get frustrating trying to get through these obstacles of the journey.

Hi, I just want to let you know that the hemoglobin level is a count of the red cells in a drop of blood.  If someone is dehydrated, then the number of cells would be higher due to less blood volume.  Giving the fluids while in hospital, would add to the volume, so less cells in the same drop of blood.  I would have to guess that her real count was 7.2 on Monday.  Sounds like she could use a unit of packed red cells.  Good luck.

Donna L