Thanks again to all who continue to give excellent advice and suggestions. I had my 4 week appointment yesterday, and I did tell the onc that the CML guidelines called for blood tests(regular, not finger prick) every 15 days, and that's what I wanted. He agreed, did not argue or anything, seemed perfectly happy to go along. I also told him that my endocrinologist wanted thyroid information at the end of June, and that I also thought my liver and kidney functions should be checked. Again, he was fine with that, and ordered those along with the CBC for the end of June.
The results of the finger prick seem to indicate that the Gleevec is working. I know some have said that the finger prick gives less accurate results, but I'm hoping it is at least an indication.My wbc was 4.3 (I think that's a little low, hopefully not a problem).
I feel much better knowing that I will be having a regular blood test in two weeks, and I'm grateful to all those who explained the importance of careful and regular monitoring.
Sue
Dx April 2013, FISH 62, BMB not enough for PCR test; put on Gleevec 400;
August 2013, FISH 8.7;
Oct 2013, FISH 5.6
Stopped Gleevec Nov 2013 for 6 weeks due to terrible side effects; Jan 2014 started Sprycel 50mg;
Feb, 2014 PCR 6.8
May,2014 PCR .149
Aug, 2014 PCR .015
Nov. 2014 PCRU
March, 2016 went down to 40mg Sprycel
Oct. 2016 stopped Sprycel for a couple weeks due to concern about shortness of breath. Echo showed mild PAH.
Nov 1 2016 resumed Sprycel 20 mg daily
Dec 2016 PCRU
March 2017 PCR 0.020
May 2017 PCRU
Sept 2017 PCRU
Dec 2017 PCRU