Biopsy issues and awaiting results

Hi Sapphire_24and a warm welcome to the Community although I am always sorry to see folks joining us. I am Mike and I help out around our various Blood Cancer groups. 

I was diagnosed way back in 1999 at 43 with a rare, incurable but treatable type of Low Grade NHL eventually reaching Stage 4a in late 2013 so I do appreciate the challenges of this journey rather well.

I have had many Bone Marrow Biopsies (BMB) over my 23+ years and fortunately we have always been able to get clean samples….. but I have talked with many who have been in the same position as your husband…… and it’s actually not that unusual not to get a clean sample.

There may be enough in the sample but they may want to repeat the BMB.

Low White Blood Counts can be down to many medical issues including a number of different blood cancers. But at this stage there is no way of knowing what this could be.

Has he been given ‘any’ indication as to what this could be?

Always around to chat ((Hugs))

Hi Mike 

Thankyou for responding so quickly and for advising that issues with biopsies aren't that uncommon, it's put my mind at rest a little.

It was first raised about the low blood count early last year, when my husband was very ill with an infection and admitted to hospital. His health had been very good otherwise.

Since then he's gradually been suffering with increasing tiredness, shortness of breath and intermittent rapid heart rate. Heart disease had been ruled out.It was highlighted again in September about the low white blood count which resulted in two further appointments to monitor the levels. It was at his last appointment that it showed the levels are still steadily dropping and he's been diagnosed with Pancytopenia and borderline anemia, resulting in the biopsy to find out the cause. 

The uncertainty of it all is obviously very concerning. 

I only know my rare Lymphoma well…. but from what I have picked up over the years there are a number of medical condition that can be the cause.

The unknown is hard but you have to trust the system to do its thing and put the jigsaw pieces together.

Back in 1999 when I was diagnosed the only symptom I had was a developing rash on my back…… and even although my consultant was 99% sure as to my type of Lymphoma it took a further year, 6 biopsies and a few scans to find the proof…… but my cancer is very rare.

Looking for answers to come along soon but I am here to chat on this thread at any time ((hugs))

Thank you very much and it's reassuring to know that cancer can be managed long term  though I'm sure not without issues. I very much appreciate your contact. 

Yes some types of blood cancer like my type are life long conditions but fortunately can be successfully managed……. Unlike many chronic illnesses.

You can actually see my story by hitting the link at the bottom of my posts ((hugs))

Wow just read your story - can't pretend I understand it all but I think you and your family are formidable to have survived all that. I love your survival slogans!

When the chips are down we all do what needs to be done…….and if required, you will as well ((hugs))