Low Platelets

My brother is currently going through with Chemo, Found out he had Liver/Pancreas Cancer Thanksgiving 07.  Stage 4 The last two chemos he has not been able to get First one he had a fever, this last time they advised his platlets were low.  The staff does not seem to concerned with this, advised that they would try again the next appt. (two weeks) should not this be cause for concern?

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

If the platelet count goes below normal the chances of bleeding are increased. Most of the chemotherapeutic agents suppress the bone marrow and thereby decrease the platelet production leading to a low platelet count.
Usually a platelet transfusion is given to restore the platelet levels back to normal. The doctor may be giving a break in chemo so that the platelet levels can come back to normal.