[CarolineO]

Hello this is my first time on the forum.

My dad was diagnosed with MDS RAEB2 with Monosomy 7 just before Easter. He completed one cycle of Azacitidine, fortunately with few side effects. His bloods were tested before he was due to start the 2nd round and as a result the 2nd cycle was postponed for a week and he had injections of GCSF to increase his white blood counts. At this time his platelets were 55.

Last Friday he was taken into hospital with a nosebleed that wouldn't stop and platelets at 22. Unfortunately they didn't start him on antibiotics straight away and he was sent to ear, nose and throat specialist rather than oncology/haematology. By the next day he had obvious signs of an infection (spiking temperature, headache, very drowsy) and he was later started on Gentamicin and Tazocin. These had no effect. He has then given an injection of GCSF which has raised his WBCs and platelets slightly. Two days ago he was started on Vancomycin. Last night it seemed it had brought his temperature down slightly to mid 38's, however this morning he is much the same and they are considering using an anti-fungal.

I wondered whether any body else has any knowledge of other treatments? I am scared as I have read that Vancomycin is considered a 'last resort' antibiotic.