WBC
WBC
I was diagnosed with CLL several years ago. I have regular appointments with my oncologist. I have been in the "wait and see" stage since diagnosis. My most recent visit, which was after a year, my WBC went from 23.4 to 56.6. My Absolute Lymphocyte Count was 44.75 K/uL. My oncologist mentioned maybe starting treatment but was not definite. My next appointment will be in 3 months. My question is how high does the WBC get before aggressive treatment is started.
From what my doc said, it really depends on how your body is feeling and reacting. I was on ‘wait and see’ stage for 3 years before my lymph nodes became too swollen. At that point my absolute was at 90, but the lymph node pain was what really pushed them into starting treatment.
Sometimes the reason for starting treatment isn’t always your WBC. Mine was the size of my nodes
I’ve been watch and wait for 9 years. My wbc has been 250k to 300k with infections being my only concern. A little fatigue too. My doc has always said he treats symptoms not numbers. I have decided to start treatment (Acalabrutinib). I have the meds but, honestly, I feel so good right now I hate to start something that might make me feel awful. I pray it won’t. But I’m suppose to start them Monday. But, again, symptoms, not numbers. All the best to you on this journey.
I’m my opinion your Doctor is correct. There is no evidence that early treatment and watch and wait has more success. I think watch and wait is a blessing for normal life. With Treatment you have side effects so I will wait as long as possible! It’s been 6 years of normal life and just this year it’s progressing but fatigue is my only issue!
My CLL Dr. called in a prescription of Compazine before I started so if/when I get nauseous I have something to take. Hopefully you have that and other meds to go along with your treatment. They might have forgotten to get that going and call to find out what else you might need. Good luck!
