3-Logs!

I just returned from a visit with my oncologist at Dana-Farber. After being on the 800 mg of Gleevec for about 8 weeks now, my PCR level dropped to 0.02%. This is the lowest it has ever been and suggests that, indeed, the higher dose is working. This reading is more than a 3-log reduction from my initial value of 34.5%. Amongst the discussion boards and scientific literature on CML, the 3-log reduction is considered a positive response and one of the last stages of remission. In other words, I have almost reached the last stage of remission or Molecular Remission. This means that my DNA has changed to stop producing leukemic cells. I joke that it is kind of like the changes that happen to superheros. To be considered in full remission, this level should be less than 0.01. That would be considered PCR undetectable. As you can see, I am not that far away.

Needless to say, this was a huge relief to know that the medication is working and my treatment is not only back on track, but moving at full speed ahead. Due to the positive results, I do not have to return for another visit for 3 months.

Yippee!!!