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CML bloods down from 50 to 10 in two weeks, what does this mean?

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Hi

Four weeks ago, after no symptoms of CML, but after bloods analysed for a gynaecological issue and hair shedding, further bloods were requested and tests which showed I had CML.

I had been taking Imatinib for two weeks when further bloods were taken. They showed my WBC down from 50 to 10. When I asked my nurse what that meant he said, "everyone responds differently". I am due a PCR test in a few weeks and will discuss my results with the haematologist in a few days.

Any thoughts/advice? I know I am not free of CML and will not stop taking the little miracle pills.

It means imatinib is killing off the CML cells and your white blood count is dropping towards normal. I assume you are taking 400 mg.

You should ask your doctor:

1. What is my FISH level percent?

2. What are my RBC, platelet and hemoglobin levels?

3. What are my blast cell count? (percentage)

3a. What are my neutrophil levels and can it get too low as CML cells are killed off?

3. When should I expect cytogenetic remission? (FISH = zero).

4. Overall, what are the normal levels of blood counts I should expect once CML is under control.

5. What long term side effects should I be aware of with imatinib?

6. Do you have nutritional advice for me to augment imatinib therapy?

Thank you for this. Yes, I’m on 400mg and I will ask the questions you state; fantastically helpful. 
 

ref diet and side effects, I’m across this. 
 

best wishes