It sounds like after two cycles of decitabine + venetoclax, the MRD (Minimal Residual Disease) test is still detecting AML — meaning the treatment hasn't achieved a full remission yet. That's understandably a lot to process, and being physically fit at 50 is actually a real advantage when it comes to exploring next steps.
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It sounds like after two cycles of decitabine + venetoclax, the MRD (Minimal Residual Disease) test is still detecting AML — meaning the treatment hasn't achieved a full remission yet. That's understandably a lot to process, and being physically fit at 50 is actually a real advantage when it comes to exploring next steps.
When initial treatment doesn't achieve remission, or AML is still detectable, doctors typically consider a few directions: - Switching or intensifying chemotherapy — different drug combinations may be tried
- Targeted therapies — depending on specific gene mutations in the leukemia cells, there may be targeted drugs that could work better
- Clinical trials — these are actually a top recommendation for AML at any stage, not just a last resort, and there are many ongoing trials for AML
- Stem cell transplant — being fit and relatively young makes this a more viable option to discuss with the care team
The most important next step is a detailed conversation with the treatment team about why the current regimen may not be working — this often comes down to specific genetic or molecular features of the leukemia cells.
Being physically fit is genuinely in favor here, as it opens up more intensive treatment options that might not be available to everyone.
July 26