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Gilbert's Syndrome increases toxicity from chemo

I found out why I've had so many problems from chemo. I was diagnosed with Gilbert's syndrome, a genetic deficiency that means in part my liver does not filter out toxins like most people's livers. So I tend to get more ill from chemo and have an increased risk of jaundice and other problems from the chemo. I could never understand how people continued working while on chemo when I was always to ill after infusions, so this may explain it.
My doctor lowered my last dose of Folfiri by 20% and was able to tolerate it much better. He's going to lower it by 30% on the next round of treatment. He said that 70% dose for me is like a 100% dose for those who don't have Gilbert's syndrome. I am so glad he checked for this.
Just thought I would let people know about this so they can get checked if they tend to get really sick from their chemo. I'm fortunate to have a doctor that checked on this for me, sure wish I'd known 2 years ago while on Folfox.
I'm not good at posting links to any articles about the topic, if you want more information I'm sure a google search would find it.
Hope this basic information helps anyone else like me who gets really sick from chemo.
Joan
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Arythmia is one of the side effects I experience
I saw a heart doctor last Friday and he wants me to wear a Holter monitor during infusions and while I have the pump on for 2 days. My doctor said today he's going to reduce the 5Fu even more and eliminate the bolus shot, so I'll just have the pump.
I have to wait to get chemo until after I have the stents replaced in my bile ducts. I go to Mayo this Friday for that and will get chemo again in 2 weeks.
Hope this will help me get through chemo while waiting for a better treatment option.
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