Jerome is doing great. PCRU is only attained by fewer than 10% of CMLers. A 3 log reduction is used as the CML therapy goal, which is more realistic. And studies show nearly 100% survival rate if 3 log reduction is achieved. So Jerome has exceeded the goal.
His anemia is something that many of us live with. Anisocytosis means the red blood cells have greater variation in size than normal. This is also shown by the CBC RDW count going higher. Poikilocytosis (oddly shaped red blood cells - RBCs) and occasional elliptocytes (oval shaped RBCs) and rare odd shaped poikilocytes are also seen in CML. Rouleaux formation is when RBCs clump together. These RBC issues are a matter of the "quality" of the RBCs, and go along with CML anemia. This is why just taking more iron or folic acid does not eliminate the anemia. These inefficient types of RBCs do not function as well, hence the anemia. Some data indicates these RBC quality issues tend to get better over time for many people. Hypocellular marrow (low number of cells in the marrow) goes with the anemia. If he is taking iron supplements, the increase in iron storage might show he is taking too much iron -- ask the doc about that. CML anemia does not automatically mean we need more iron. Too much iron can be counterproductive. The body stores the excess iron, which is not necessarily a good thing. Fibrosis (scarring) of the marrow is NOT Myelofibrosis (also called Idiopathic Myelofibrosis). No wonder it scared you. Mild fibrosis of the marrow can sometimes occur in CML, and is often reversible. Myelofibrosis is a different disease caused by a separate DNA mutation. --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "CMLHope" group. To post to this group, send email to CMLHope@googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/CMLHope?hl=en -~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~---
