PCV Chemotherapy

My husband has a grade 4 brain tumour and is currently on his second course of PCV chemotherapy. The dose had to be reduced as, after the first course, he developed low platelets and then was low in white blood cells.

He finished the second course on 23/06/25 and has 32 days off although he has been put forward for a trial, Citadel -123 in London

My question is about fatigue as, at present he is very low in energy and is only managing walking as a form of exercise. Could you make any suggestions on how to improve his energy levels? Or do you think his energy levels may rise now this latest cycle has finished?

 
If he is accepted on the trial, he needs to remain at performance grade 1 which he is at present.

Any tips would be welcomed.

  • Hello BetsyBumpty and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear about your husband and the fatigue that he is experiencing.

    There can be any number of factors that can be causing this including from the actual cancer and his treatment and his lowered blood levels. Hopefully with a break from treatment his energy levels may improve but everyone is so different.

    It is good that your husband is able to take short walks as this can help with increasing energy levels. Food is a great source of energy. Small frequent light meals can also help reduce fatigue.

    Food high in protein such as fish, milk products such as yogurt and drinking enough fluid particularly in this very hot weather may also help. We have a page on our website about how you can include high calorie drinks in a diet.

    If you have specific questions about diet and increasing energy levels you may want to get in touch with the dietitians working at the Cancer and Nutrition Helpline | World Cancer Research Fund

    We have a page on our website about fatigue which may have some tips that you might find helpful.

    The Brain Tumour Charity have tips with helping with fatigue which you might also find useful to look at. They have more information here

    The Brain Tumour Charity has tips on diet which you might find helpful to look at.

    I do hope some of these links may be helpful.

    Do give the nurses a ring on the helpline if you would like to talk things through.

    The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the very best,

    Catherine