Function

• Chemo may improve the symptoms of arthritis by slowing reproduction of cells and decreasing certain chemicals expressed by the cells that are known to cause inflammation.
  
  

Misconceptions

• A common misconception related to chemotherapy is that its only use is in the treatment of malignancy. Many individuals are not familiar with the effects of chemo on arthritis.
  
  

Warning

• Chemotherapy has many side effects. The side effects of chemo on arthritis are the same as the side effects it produces in the treatment of cancer. The patient should notify a physician immediately at the first sign of side effects.
  
  

Effects

• Side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, anemia, low white blood count, compromised immune system, decreased blood clotting ability, weakness, extreme fatigue and hair loss.
  
  

Significance

• It is important to note that the doses at which chemotherapy is given in the treatment of arthritis are much lower than the doses given for the treatment of cancer. Lower dosage may decrease the incidence of side effects.