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Real members of MyLeukemiaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Valley Springs, CA

I discovered that in the past medication was good until the bad cells mutate and control can be lost. I read an article which reported that this concern may only affect 4% of those taking a certain medication. https://cllsociety.org/2025/08/real-world-preva...

Real-World Prevalence of BTK Mutations in Patients with CLL
Real-World Prevalence of BTK Mutations in Patients with CLL
November 25, 2025
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A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Spleen…
Yes I looked like I ate a baseball plate.
Your spleen holds the white cells fighting invaders.
Sending you prayers my friend.
To me it became a sign I was winning.
At least I was fighting
Here’s my Adams’s family
uncle Fester look .
Be proud my fighter

December 4, 2025
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Hello RobertGallegos. I took Calquence for 18 months. My WBC and platelets were normal for the last 6 months. I was told the body could become resistant to the medication and my hematologist suggested we suspend the treatment. That was the end of June. Virtual appointment with him in July to check if my fatigue was better. It was some. The brain fog too longer to go away. Labs in August when I was at UNC for a thyroid ultrasound. WBC and platelets still normal. Last visit was in October for hematologist, labs and IVIG. WBC and platelets still normal but RBC and hematocrit were increased. I go tomorrow for next IVIG and of course labs first. So we will see. Next visit with hematologist is in January. Hope this reinforces what you asked. Take care.

December 3, 2025
MyLeukemiaTeam

How common is it for leukemia cells to develop resistance through mutations?

You're touching on an important concern—cancer cells can sometimes develop mutations that allow them to resist treatment. This is a known challenge with various leukemia therapies, including targeted treatments like BTK inhibitors used for chronic Show Full Answer

How common is it for leukemia cells to develop resistance through mutations?

You're touching on an important concern—cancer cells can sometimes develop mutations that allow them to resist treatment. This is a known challenge with various leukemia therapies, including targeted treatments like BTK inhibitors used for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

When leukemia cells mutate, they can develop resistance to medications that were previously working well. This is why doctors monitor treatment response closely through regular blood tests and appointments.

However, not all medications face the same resistance rates, and research continues to develop newer treatments that work differently. Here are the main treatment categories that may be options if resistance develops:

* Targeted therapies that attack different pathways in cancer cells
* Immunotherapy to boost your immune system's response
* Chemotherapy combinations
* Stem cell transplant
* Clinical trials testing new approaches

If you're concerned about resistance developing with your specific treatment, discussing monitoring strategies and backup treatment plans with your healthcare team can provide reassurance. They can explain what signs to watch for and what options would be available if your current treatment stops working as effectively.

November 25, 2025
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Hi PhillipWood, your pic looks pretty good to me. At least you still have the mustache. We are all on the leukemia journey together. Some of us are just ahead of others as we travel along. Stay positive, keep smiling and keep praying. God will be with you and give you strength. I will add you to my prayer list.
Thank you for your encouraging words Phillip. The not knowing what is ahead is bugging me, but then I remember the "Serenity Prayer" and I know I everything will be alright... GOD is in charge.
You keep fighting... and winning ! 👍🙏

December 5, 2025
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

I hope your holidays are not affected by your infusion? I was just told my spleen was not normal size but I have been taking medication also 2 years so this could help me? Please let me know how you are doing after your infusion?

December 4, 2025

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