After nearly a year at 0.076 or lower, I have just had the result of my latest PCR. What a nasty surprise - 0.299. My haematologist says I still have MMR, and hasn't suggested that I go back any earlier than my next scheduled appointment, in late October (when I'm also due another bone marrow test).
Should I be worried, or is this likely to be "just a blip"? I understand that the result can be different because of various things - lack of adherence (I've only missed one dose, over 2 years ago) or a different laboratory doing the testing, or even a more accurate scale being used. As far as I know, my PCRs are done at the Hammersmith.
Any suggestions?
Olivia
You are here
My PCR is up
Dear Olivia,
although I know it must be very worrying for you to see this rise, I am going to tell you to try not to... worry that is! Remember, this is from one result only and it is likely to be a blip- i.e something to do with the particular sample- its journey to the lab at HH- the possibility that it was left a little too long on the shelf (it is summer holiday time) - etc etc. In other words there are a lot of factors that can effect the result of one sample. That is why you need to see a trend of rises before you need to worry, and even then- as your doctor has indicated- you are still in MR, so you have a very large window of opportunity to act if your bcr/abl really is on the rise.
I would think that if over the next month or so, the results of the current sample sent to HH comes back with the same (or higher) result your doctor may want to take another sample to see if a third result would confirm a trend upwards. The message is not to panic and to remember that should you need another TKI, there are several options available.
It is more than likely a blip.
Best wishes,
Sandy
I've just had an email from the hospital, and apprently the secretary made a typo - my PCR was 0.0299 instead of 0.299!
Thanks everyone for all your support.
Oh wow Olivia... how relieved you must be. No need for tortuous waiting of confirmation of a blip or indication of something more serious.
I am so glad someone checked and that someone owned up ;o)
Yes, I will be trying really hard to find the time to attend the Seminar this year in Glasgow, 99% certain.
Best to you and hopefully even more zeros in future
Best.... Sandy