Can decreased platelets be associated with low grade fever?
Patient: My husband has been on Gemzar for pancreatic cancer.  He has not had it for about two weeks due to his low platelets, 72,000.  He now has a low grade fever.  His WBC and lymphocytes are fine.  Can the decreased platelets be associated with a low grade fever? Doctor: Hello dear,Thank you for your contact to health care magic.I read and understand your concern. I am Dr Arun Tank answering your concern.No, low platelets has nothing to do with the low grade fever.There are many reason for low grade fever. But looking into your case I think the reason for low grade fever is the cancer cachexia.Neoplastic syndrome which is seen along with the fever can cause such a low grade fever along with other symptoms.So you can take the tablet paracetamol under your doctors guidance whenever you are having fever. It will drop down your fever immediately.You can later show this to your doctor and diagnosed yourself.Cancer and its therapy can cause immunosuppression so maintenance of good hygiene can put you away form the other known and unknown infections.I will be happy to answer your further concern on bit.ly/DrArun.Thank you,Dr Arun TankInfectious diseases specialist,HCM.