AML after stem cell transplant

My spouse was diagnosed with Myelofibrosis in 2018 and whilst initially controlled by drugs, a rapid decline meant he needed a stem cell transplant. This took place in November 2020 with his sister being a 10/10 match. He was doing well and hospital were happy with him until about 6 weeks ago he started to experience extreme bone pain which he also suffered with before the transplant. After a failed bone marrow biopsy ( his bones are like rock and it's difficult to get any liquid/marrow) he had another biopsy on Tuesday where they took the sample from his sternum.

We had a normal clinic appointment on Thursday and were told he now has Acute Myeloid Leukaemia and needs to start chemo straight away. He is booked in for tomorrow for a week of chemo then I'm not really sure what happens after that. I feel like the conversation with the doctor on Thursday has left me know not really knowing what's going on although I know she said if he didn't have treatment he would only have months left. I have tried researching this but can't seem to find anything specific to his journey. 
 

What kind of questions should I be asking the doctors and nurses about this whole process? I very much deal with facts and figures and don't feel like I took anything in we were told but the husband is pretty sure his outcome is grave. Is it possible to have another transplant in one has failed within 10 months? 
 

I'm just a bit lost with it all.

 

Thanks

  • Hello Mrsphantom

    I'm sorry to hear about your husband's recent diagnosis of AML. It's obviously been an incredibly difficult time for you both over the past few years and now to have to deal with this as well, it's understandable that you've been left feeling lost with many unanswered questions. 

    Can I suggest that you give our team of nurses a call? I'm sure they will be happy to offer any information and advice that they can along with helping you think about the kinds of questions you may want to raise with the Consultant at the next appointment. If you'd like to chat with them they're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    I hope that his treatment goes smoothly this week. Keep in touch and let us know how you're both doing. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator