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Blood cancer

Betsy001
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Hi,

after a few blood tests from GP re my concerns about weight loss, fatigue and joint pain.

got a referral to haematology.

i had a meeting with haematology Dr earlier today, re high red blood count. I was told that I have blood cancer ! Quite reassured that this condition is not curable but manageable ThumbsupThumbsup

I have to get a bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy. I’m sure this will determine what kind of blood cancer I have?

it had been mentioned during consultation that an oral chemotherapy drug could be used.

I have previously been through stage 3 grade 3 breast cancer, and still here :-) :-) only 4 years ago ! 
feeling a bit confused with the information I was given x

e x

any advice would be greatly appreciate x

  • Hi Betsy001,

     

    Thank you for getting in touch with us and welcome back to the Online Community.  I’m happy to see that you are a member of several different groups on here.  I really hope you find them helpful and supportive. 

    I’m Adrienne, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists at Macmillan.

    First of all, it’s great to hear that you have come through your treatment for breast cancer but I’m so sorry to hear of your recent blood cancer diagnosis.

    There are many different types of blood cancer and you are absolutely right in that the bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy will be able to determine which one you have.  You can read more about the biopsy itself here and there is also a video which explains what to expect during and after the procedure.

    Once the doctors have determined which kind of blood cancer you have, this will then determine the treatment plan.  There are several different types of treatment for blood cancer, from chemotherapy (through a vein or tablet form) to immunotherapy and targeted therapy.  Some people do not need treatment straight away, if their cancer is slow growing.  Others will be given a course of treatment with the aim of putting the cancer into remission or even as a more long-term treatment.

    The doctors firstly need to find out what type of blood cancer you have before finally deciding on the best treatment plan for you.  It may be worth writing down some questions to ask when you meet with your doctor to discuss the plan after biopsy.  You can find some examples of questions that might be helpful here.

    It’s important that you look after yourself and feel supported throughout.  Blood Cancer UK have some information on living well with blood cancer and we also have a forum on the Online Community for blood cancer.

    I hope this has been helpful but please know you can always call one of our nurses to discuss things further.

    Take care and best wishes,

     

    Adrienne

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. We are available on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref:  AMc/GJ

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