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Hello! My sister ,age 74 has recently been diagnosed with CML
My sister has been diagnosed with CML recently.She is taking daily dose of hydroxy urea. So far ,her weekly blood monitoring shows ups and down in WBC abd RBC counts. She has some side effects..blackening of nails.
Will greatly appreciate hearing experiences of elderly patients with CML.
Thanks
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Welcome to Connect @ismatjahan007 It’s wonderful that your sister has such a caring sibling looking out for her. ☺️ I’m sorry to hear she’s having some side effects to the hydroxyurea. If she’s recently started taking hydroxy, it can be a matter finding the sweet spot with the dosage over the next few months. If there’s great improvement seen in the blood work sometimes doctors may then adjust the prescription dosage lower to help avoid side effects but still maintain a treatment level.
It’s not unusual for blood numbers to fluctuate while on this medication though. While working to reduce the number of cancer cells, hydroxy can also have an impact on other fast growing cells such as fingernails, hair, mucosal tissue, and of course, blood cells. She may find that her numbers level out after a period of time.
There are quite a few members in the forum diagnosed with Chronic myeloid leukemia, but I’m not sure of their ages. This discussion might be a good one for you to explore with members @suzie71 and others who share their experiences with CML/treatments. More discussions can be found by typing in CML in the top search bar.
~I've had CML for 20 years and want to encourage others
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/chronic-myelogenous-leukemia-cml/
Was your sister having any particular symptoms that led to her diagnosis?
Has she discussed the nail blackening with her doctor?
Dear Lori
Thank you so much for your prompt reply.I found your message quite uplifting.
My sister didn't have any discernible symptoms. It was diagnosed following a regular blood test. The WBC was rising and she was anemic.
Yes,she mentioned to the doctor about blackening of her nails.I understand the doctor then decreased the dosage of hydroxy urea.
I am really heartened to know that you have managed CML well. It is really encouraging.
I will also reach out to members @suzie71 . These are times when reaching out and holding hands of persons who are in similar boat can be a source of strength.
Thanks again.
Ismat