CML diagnosed today

Hi,

My dad (68) was taken to hospital today via ambulance following a deterioration in his health with symptoms of weight loss, changes in his speech, his left arm isn't doing what he wants it to do, no appetite and constant tiredness. He has a benign tumour in his brain which has been partially removed and the fluid surrounding it is being drained by an internal tube.

At hospital, blood tests have determined he has CML and has been put on chemotherapy immediately due to a very high count of white blood cells.

This is a huge shock and I dont really know how to deal with all this but I'm here to ask questions. What happens from here? How do I know how severe his condition is? Is the instant chemo a normal treatment and if so, why? What's the prognosis?

He's having an urgent MRI scan shortly. Results to follow. 

  • White blood count was 260 in test results. Normal range is between 20-40

  • Hello Richielee81

    I'm sorry to hear that your Dad has been told this week that he has CML. It sounds like it's been a difficult time for you both with his health problems recently, and I can understand that this news may have been overwhelming. 

    It sounds like the hospital team is moving quickly to try and establish the full extent of what is going on with your Dad's health and to try to improve things for him. Hopefully, once the team has all the information they need, they will be able to give you both some answers about the outlook and what treatment they recommend. 

    In the meantime, I wonder if you might find it helpful to chat things through with one of our nurses. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    I hope things settle soon Richielee81. Keep in touch and let us know how you're both getting on. We're here for you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator