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Dr. Alan B. Cantor, MD, PhD is a pediatric oncologist in Boston, MA specializing in pediatric hematology/oncology. Dr. Alan B. Cantor, MD, PhD is affiliated with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
450 BROOKLINE AVENUE
Boston, MA 02215
Anemia
Anemia is the most common blood disorder. It occurs when the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues. Blood loss, insufficient red blood cell production, and red blood cell destruction are the three main causes of anemia. These issues may arise from such conditions as iron deficiency, heavy periods, ulcers, kidney disease, as well as some forms of cancer.
An individual with anemia will have the following symptoms: shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, cold hands or feet, paleness, and irritability. Anemia is diagnosed when blood tests show low counts for hemoglobin, which is the protein responsible for carrying oxygen to different tissues throughout the body.
Treatments for anemia are dependent on the kind of anemia an individual has. For example, iron supplementation may correct iron deficiency anemia. For anemia caused by chronic kidney failure, chemotherapy treatments, and HIV/AIDS, a group of medications called erythropoiesis-stimulating agents may be prescribed.
Thrombocytopenia (Low Platelet Count)
Thrombocytopenia is a disorder where people have too few platelets. With too few platelets in the bloodstream, the blood is unable to properly clot. People with thrombocytopenia may experience prolonged external and internal bleeding. Large purple bruises (ecchymoses) and small red skin spots (petechiae) in the skin and mouth are common in those with thrombocytopenia. Other symptoms of the disorder include bleeding gums, blood in bodily fluids, and fatigue. Thrombocytopenia most often arises from a different condition or treatment, such as alcoholism, autoimmune disease, cancer treatments, viruses (such as Hepatitis C and HIV), bone marrow diseases (such as leukemia and aplastic anemia), enlarged spleen, and exposure to toxic chemicals. In rare cases, thrombocytopenia is inherited.
If a doctor suspects a patient has a thrombocytopenia, a complete blood count (CBC) or platelet count test helps determine the concentration of platelets in a person's blood at a given time. Thrombocytopenia can be diagnosed by hematologists using advanced tests on platelet samples. Flow cytometry tests detect abnormalities by evaluating the characteristics of a platelet sample using targeted lasers and lights.
Treatments for low platelet counts include steroids like Prednisone, that can assist with platelet production. If a patient's low platelet count is caused by spleen problems, spleen removal (splenectomy) may be recommended. To treat the prolonged bleeding caused by thrombocytopenia, doctors frequently prescribe Dempressin, a hormone that promotes blood clotting. Antifibrinolytic medications such as tranexamic acid may also aid in the promotion of clotting and the prevention of bleeding. For patients with severe platelet disorders (either low platelet count and dysfunctional platelets), blood transfusions may be prescribed. Platelet blood transfusions deliver donated platelets to patients intravenously, replenishing the volume of functioning platelets.
Patients can also modify their lifestyle to better manage their disorder and minimize complications. Patients with low blood counts should avoid blood-thinning medications, alcohol, and activities that could lead to injury. Many people with thrombocytopenia can live healthy and fulfilling lives with proper treatment and precautions.
He has a state license in Massachusetts.
Licensed In: Massachusetts
Dr. Alan B. Cantor, MD, PhD is associated with these hospitals and organizations:
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These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Alan B. Cantor, MD, PhD. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.
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$1,100
Nplate $1,100 |
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$100
$100 |
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$21
QUADRACEL $21 |
| $1,100 | |
| $100 | |
| $21 |
Dr. Alan Cantor's specialty is pediatric hematology/oncology. His clinical interests include cancer, anemia, and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Dr. Cantor is professionally affiliated with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. He has an open panel in Boston, MA according to Doctor.com.
