Hi,
I might be that your wife's symptoms are because she is anaemic. Imatinib can suppress the red cells so it is often the case that the haemoglobin level (HGB) is a little low. If it is under 10 it may cause tiredness, breathlessness etc. Normal HGB for women is 12 -16, but many have lower than that whilst on TKI therapy.
If she is having more serious symptoms like feelings of pressure on her chest, it may be a warning of her having more serious cardio vascular issues. If her platelet count is low (normal is 200 - 450) she should not take aspirin or other medications that have a 'blood thinning' effect. If her platelet (blood clotting cells) count is within normal range then the aspirin at a very low dose would be OK- but she should really be tested to make sure she does not have a problem with her cardiovascular system or blood pressure etc.
Her 6 month PCR result looks fine so far as it has reduced since the last one and is going in the right direction. She should expect a complete cytogenetic response (CCyR = 1.0%) or more preferably a molecular response (MMR 0.1%) within 12 months if not before.
It is always best to talk with the treating clinician about any side effects or possible signs of other underlying medical issues that may or may not be caused by her medication.
Best wishes,
Sandy
