5 replies to this topic

[Tedsey]

Question about what 1+ means.  For the first time since starting G, I had a CBC that looked close to normal.  Was wondering why I didn't hear from onc nurse this week.  I am not used to this!  Platelets are still low, but nowhere near danger level.  ANC is normal!  I am thinking it is due to, what I will call, this wonderful cold I have that kicked them in (just surmising).

For example, this is how my RBC are listed:

(It states that 100 cells were counted)

MACRO 1+

MICRO 1+

POLY 1+

OVALO 1+

OTHER RBC MORPH: teardrop 1+ (I have read that teardrop shaped cells can mean fibrosis in bone marrow.  I had this at dx too.  However, I do not know if a certain amt. is normal in blood--is this something to worry about?)

I am anemic, but it appears this is normal for many on G.  That may explain the rushing in the ears I have been having.  However, it could also be my cold.  I also had a mild one at dx when I first noticed the rushing.

P.S. Can anything be done for Gleevec induced anemia?  Also, before dx, I was always on the edge of anemia.  All my counts seemed to be on the low end (accidentally got reports from last 4 years of doc visits).  Do you just have to live with it?  I do not like to eat meat, but I have been choking down a little of it thinking it may help.  Believe it or not, exercise makes me feel better and more energetic.  Anyone else?

[Trey]

Here is some quick info.  Got to run....

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megaloblastic_anemia

[CherylLynn]

Tedsey,

I too am anemic and have been since way before the CML dx...I am 2 iron pills per day as prescribed by the local Onc. - I'm surprised they havent got you on them as well.

I have tinnitus in my right ear and have had the rushing sounds now for about 10 years along with the constant ringing like you've been at a concert.

The iron pills has helped to keep my hemaglobin up and so far has not provided me with any of the unpleasant side-effects such as constipation...

Cheryl

[Wobbles]

These are Morphology gradings.  It simply gives the percentage of  cells with the indicated characteristics.  I am 2+ macrocytosis plus a bunch of other ones.  Joe

Morphology Grading
1+	2 to 5%
2+	5 to 20%
3+	20 to 40%
4+	>40%

[Trey]

Sorry that I was going out of town and did not put the intended link in my "quick info" posting above, but I have added it now.

The various terms (micro, macro, etc) show the size, shape and color of the RBCs.  Microcytic (too small), macrocytic (too large), polychromasia (mis-colored), ovalytes (poorly shaped), tear-drop (mis-shapen).  All of this shows anemia, and Gleevec can either cause it or make it worse.  The tear-drop shapes do not indicate fibrosis by itself.

The main problem here is that these types of cells function less efficiently in supplying oxygen to the body.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macrocytic_anemia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microcytic_anemia

[Tedsey]

Thanks for the info. everyone.