Full response to Stem Cell Rescue > March 2010
Hi, back from London and they have confirmed a full response from my transplant in terms of para-proteins and normalised serum free light chains which is fantastic news. This gives me every chance of a long treatment free period I hope. My first four monthly results for my light chains have all been in the normal range (Lambda 5.7 to 26.3 mg/l) May > 16.1, June > 21.4, late June 21.2 and recently July 17.3. This is great as before my op they were creeping over 100 and on my original diagnosis they were over 400!
My other symptoms appear to be improving also as my protein leak has reduced to 3.4g/l this was well over 9. Been told that my kidneys will never fully recover but remain normal in functionality. My heart function has also improved “what is more interesting and very promising is the remarkable rapid improvement in systolic function on echocardiography. If the SFLC’s stay suppressed for a long period then I’m hoping that the amyloid deposits around my organs (especially my heart) begin to reduce which hopefullt would reduce the breathlessness when going up hills etc.
I will continue to take my ramipril tabs to protect my kidneys and the simvastatin to check my cholestrol (which appears fairly normal at presnt 5.3 mmol/L.
My water retention is vastly improved and I only take furesomide tabs maybe once a month (weird?) for the swelling at the bottom of my legs/ankles.
My weight has come back to about 74kgs which is still slightly under my baseline prior to hospital. The chemo rips you gut and throat cells about a bit so stomach has been a bit tender (acid reflux etc) so I’m taking some omeprazols to reduce the acid production and I’m told they are pretty good after a night out!
Most of all I feel human again and am starting to play 18 holes of golf (the hills can be tricky but take my time).
stay positive,
spk soon
Phil
Filed under: Latest News on July 20th, 2010
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