ABSTRACT Prophylactic immunization in cancer patients is safe and cost-effective in reducing the disease burden and complications arising from vaccine preventable infections. For maximal effectiveness, patients should be vaccinated with inactivated vaccines at least two weeks prior or three months subsequent to myeloablative chemotherapy.  Hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients should similarly be vaccinated 6-12 months […]

ABSTRACT In our daily life, we all encounter a range of microorganisms by breathing, eating and drinking and by direct contact with each other and the objects around us. This routine occasionally leads to infection. By contrast, patients who are given chemotherapy to treat cancer can succumb dramatically when confronted with these commonplace infections. Moreover […]

ABSTRACT Infection represents a major cause of morbidity and mortality in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients and cancer patients. Antimicrobial prophylaxis is justifiable in these immunosuppressed patients, but its benefits may be offset by potential problems such as the selection for resistant organisms, an increase in toxicity and cost. Therefore, any attempt to administer […]

ABSTRACT Antimicrobial stewardship programs are recommended by the Infectious Diseases Society of America as a method to control antimicrobial costs and resistance. These programs are usually implemented hospital wide, but there is little evidence on their effects in oncology units. Three controversial areas of antimicrobial stewardship in oncology units include whether these programs decrease antimicrobial resistance […]

ABSTRACT       Prevention of zoonoses in cancer patients is the theme of this chapter and it is hoped that it will encourage and help doctors caring for such patients to educate them to avoid the infections. Avoidance need not include seperation from a pet or occupation or recreation, but the use of caution […]