Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)
is a fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow. In AML, the bone marrow makes many unformed cells called blasts. Blasts normally develop into white blood cells that fight infection. However, the blasts are abnormal in AML. They do not develop and cannot fight infections. The bone marrow may also make abnormal red blood cells and platelets. The number of abnormal cells (or leukemia cells) grows quickly. They crowd out the normal red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets the body needs.

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Day 131 -- (Day+23)

Saturday.  Riley and I learned how to flush out his port and central line today.  We will have to do it everyday at home as part of his care.  Riley is already a pro. 
Riley's white blood cell count and ANC came back quite low today compared to what it has been.  Initially I was very concerned, but the doctors assure that all of the numbers will flucuate for a while.  Also it just might be the read for today.  It changes constantly.  White blood cells only live 3-4 hours.  We are all anxious for tomorrows labs.  It is our going home day and we are pretty set on that...

Labs today:
White blood cells:  2.5  (normal 4.5 - 13.5)
Red Blood cells:  10.1  (normal 13.5 - 17.5)
Platelets: 50  (normal 150 - 425)
ANC:  1650  ( < 500 = severely neutropenic) (normal 2,000 - 5,000)
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1 comment:

  1. Tanya :)May 30, 2012 at 7:09 AM

    Hoping Riley got to go home and that things are going well! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. ~Davis Family

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