My AML has been in remission for a year: Will it relapse?

Hi @bettersleep68 We lost internet connection yesterday while I was writing my reply to you! I wanted to get back to you right away because I’m sure you’re pretty rattled about getting a call-back from your hematologist requesting a bone marrow biopsy after finding some blast cells in your recent labs. Years ago, I would have been too! But I’ve learned so much over my years with AML, about the ever changing treatments brought about by continual research in this field. While there may be setbacks, there is seldom a shortage of treatment options, including newer targeted therapies.

1.7% is a very small percentage of blast cells, but those little buggers shouldn’t be in your circulating blood. I can’t recall if we talked about this before or not. But AML can have some properties which may toss out some obstacles during treatment.
Like a police chase with the bad guys eluding capture…Some of the mutations with AML may allow a few of the cancer cells to actually go dormant or ‘hide out’ during treatment, which enables them to avoid getting caught by the chemo. When these rogue cells ‘feel’ the time is safe for them to reemerge, they come out of hiding and start replicating again. That’s why there is monthly chemo maintenance even after remission. To snag any stragglers.

Some of these same cells (leukemic blast cells) may also morph, adapting to the chemo so that it no longer can hurt them! Again, allowing the cancer cells to start replicating and showing up in the blood stream. At which point, your doctor will most likely switch up the treatment plan to throw another road block out to intercept the blast cells.

The bone marrow biopsy will allow the doctor a peek at the marrow. They’ll be able to have a full report on the types of cells that are being produced in the marrow and may be able to pinpoint the specific mutation that’s allowing the ‘come-back’ kid to come out of hiding! But not to be discouraged, your doctor will come up with a plan. There are treatment options to thwart the villains. ☺️

Do you happen to recall the mutations associated with your AML?

Need some advice from someone who is over 70ish with aml and in remission.how long have you been in remission and what is the options that we have....continue chemo or watch and wait...your reply will be. Appreciated

I’m 74. Have MDS that has not converted to AML yet. On “Wait and See” list. Have had MDS since 2010 at age 58. Not that any of this helps you…but at least we’re not alone on that list! :>}