[Tips on the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factors in cancer patients predisposed to chemotherapy - induced febrile neutropenia].

Chemotherapy-induced febrile neutropenia(FN)is a major risk factor for severe infections, with a dose-limiting toxicity that necessitates dose reductions and/or delays in scheduled chemotherapy sessions. Therefore, the use of granulocyte colony- stimulating factors(G-CSF)is recommended in cancer patients at a risk of chemotherapy-induced FN. Three types of GCSF, filgrastim, lenograstim, and nartograstim, have been available thus far. The differences in potency and efficacy among these G-CSF needs to be thoroughly understood. Prophylactic G-CSF is recommended in patients receiving a chemotherapy regimen associated with a high risk(>20%)of FN. A chemotherapy regimen associated with intermediate risk(10-20%)of FN, requires particular attention to the neutrophil count and observation of symptoms of infection after chemotherapy. Prophylactic G-CSF could be included in subsequent chemotherapy regimens, if needed.