Question: Dear doc,
My 5.5mo baby girl has been diagnosed with neuroblastoma and has undergoing chemotherapy regime for 3 cycle already. My baby is exclusive breastfeed. Her LFT result last week shows albumin in her blood only 19. Should I be worried? How could I increase it. It was not a problem before this. She also not showing sign ready to eat yet. For your info, she refuse bottlefeed, syringe feed or even spoon fed. (by Noorazura Azuddin)
Answer: Dear Puan Noorazura, Patients undergoing chemotherapy usually have poor apetite. This can contribute to their low protein(albumin) levels in the blood. They are other causes of low albumin levels as well . You need to consult your child’s oncologist so that they can properly assess your child. They would probably refer your child to a dietician so that the dietician can advise you accordingly. If your child is not feeding at all , one option is feeding thru a nasogastric tube. However, you should still continue breastfeeding. Thank you. ( Dr Najib )