- Diagnosis of ET, was taking chemo pill with no blood test monitoring and now no chemo pill nor monthly blood test. Is this right and is it dangerous? Was diagnosed with bone marrow.
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Hi Tillb,
Thanks for getting in touch, and welcome to the online community.
My name is Ursula and I’m one of the cancer information nurse specialists on the Macmillan support line.
I am sorry to read of your diagnosis of ET, which I take from that to mean Essential Thrombocythaemia. It is understandable to have questions around this
As we are independent of the NHS and do not have access to medical records, we are therefore unable to offer personalised advice. However, hopefully understanding the process of what generally happens and why, will help you going forward.
Treatment for ET is usually given to prevent complications such as blood clots. This is called supportive treatment. You have regular blood tests to check for changes in your condition. Likewise, if on chemotherapy, regular blood tests will be carried out to ensure it is safe to have chemotherapy. Not everyone with ET needs treatment, but this will be something that we would recommend speaking with your haematologist about as they will be best placed to advise.
The general information on our website states that ‘’ If you have ET, you need regular check-ups and blood tests.’’ If this is not happening, we would suggest speaking with your haematologist or clinical nurse specialist to understand why you are no longer on treatment. They can also help you understand how often you should be having these follow up blood tests and check-ups, and arrange these for you.
I hope this information is helpful, and please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you require any further information or support.
Sending best wishes,
Ursula
You can speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
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