9 replies to this topic

[Judy2]

Since it has been 5 mo. post dx and my PCR has not decreased does this mean my prognosis will not be as favorable as it would have been if I had responded sooner? Thanks in advance for any help.

Judy

[GerryL]

If you haven't at least reached CHR (Complete Hematological Response) i would think they would be switching you to another drug.

[Trey]

A fast and deep response is a good indicator for excellent long term response.  But the reverse is not so clear.  If a different drug works well, then there is no reason to expect a poor long term prognosis. 

You did not mention FISH tests, so I assume you are not having them done.  They are often more useful early on.  But if you are not seeing any response after 5 months, that would show the need for another drug.  It also would suggest that a 6 month BMB would be a good idea. 

[scuba]

Judy - Change drugs.  Although FISH early on is a useful indicator - PCR should start to drop within the first 3 months.

[Judy2]

I reached CHR in about 3 weeks, and have remained there. I was on Gleevec but switched to Tasigna just today. I was wondering, though, does it make a difference how long it takes to show a decrease in PCR results? If I haven't shown a decrease in 5 mo will my long term outcome be just as favorable as it would have been if I had shown a decrease by now?

[Judy2]

Thanks Trey and Scuba. I don't think a Fish was done, at least I can't find the results of one in the test results I have. I am having a 6mo. BMB done next month. My onc. said I should be at about 1% in my PCR results by  now so I guess I'm a little worried but hopefully I'll be able to tolerate the Tasigna and have good resuls with it.

Judy

[GerryL]

The Tasigna should give you a deeper and quicker response as it is a big improvement on the "old war horse" Gleevec. Keep your chin up, the month will be past before you know it and you more than likely will get a nice little Christmas present.

[Judy2]

I do think the Tasigna will work, I just hope I can tolerate the side effects.  Speaking of Christmas:

Question: Why did Mary have Jesus in a manger?

Answer: She was on an HMO.

[CallMeLucky]

Others made mention of this - using PCR early on is not the best test for tracking progress.  Until you achieve a cytogenetic response you should be having a FISH test done and seeing if it is decreasing.

[Judy2]

Thanks. I'll ask my onc. about the FISH test next time I see him.