Posted by Aunt Stacey
The goal of the first phase of treatment is to get the percentage of lymphoblasts (the cancer cells) in the bone marrow below 5%. When this happens the Cancer is considered to be in remission which means that the disease is under control and responding to the Chemotherapy.
ViviAnne's Bone Marrow Test results came back today at 0.12%. We would have been happy with any number below 5, but 0.12 is great! She will now soon begin the second phase of Treatment called Consolidation.
When leukemia is diagnosed, there are usually about 100 billion leukemia cells in the body. Killing 99.9% of these leukemia cells during the 1-month induction treatment is enough to achieve a remission, but it still leaves about 100 million leukemia cells in the body. These also must be destroyed. An intensive 4- to 6-month program of Consolidation treatment and about 2 years of Maintenance chemotherapy helps destroy the remaining cancer cells.
5 comments:
I know that there is a long road ahead for ViviAnne and your family, but I hope this news is a beacon of the light that Kristen mentioned. It is wonderful to hear that ViviAnne is responding to treatment. ViviAnne and family are in our prayers daily. I second Stacey's nomination for Kristen (I'm sure Brent is in running for a close second! )! -Brittney (Bray) and Family
Great News and thanks to you Stacy for letting us know the update!
Cousin Deb
Great pictures too! It is good to see ViviAnne smile.
Yeah! I am so happy she is responding so well! I love you all a ton!
Kenzie
I am glad to hear she is responding well. I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
WOW! what wonderful news:) we are so happy for all of you, especially vivianne. the pictures of her are great (love the finger puppets, brent). it's so good to see her smile, especially with her lil' belly sticking out. we'll continue to think of you all as you continue the treatment plan and know that good things will continue to happen. keep the faith! love, jenny & eric
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