The results of the second flow cytometry and TCR-PCR tests ordered by Dr. Loughran and performed at UVA are back. Both of these tests confirm the earlier diagnosis - I have a small population of T cell large granular lymphocytes that are genetically mutated and cloning themselves instead of dying off as they normally should. In addition, I also have a small population of B cell lymphocytes that are also genetically mutated and clonal. Both of these blood cell mutations are abnormal and malignant, meaning that I do have a form of leukemia.
Because I test positive for the T cell LG lymphocyte gene mutation, I am technically classified as having T cell chronic large granular lymphocyte leukemia (LGLL). However, and in addition, I may develop B cell chronic lymphocyte leukemia (CLL) if those mutated B cells lymphocytes become more numerous. There is a numerical threshold of mutated cells above which the diagnosis becomes positive for each form of leukemia. In both cases the disease is chronic, as emphasized by the italics, and will probably be non life-threatening for the foreseeable future.
Life threatening symptoms for both are the same: severe anemia due to a low red blood cell count, recurring infections due to low neutrophil count and rheumatoid arthritis. The clinical connection between RA and leukemia is still unclear and being investigated. My neutrophil and RBC counts remain within the normal range. Since I'm not showing any of the life-threatening symptoms and my only real symptom is a higher than normal lymphocyte count, my longevity outlook is very rosy.
I will remain on a schedule of having blood draws for a CBC every three (3) months and office visits with my hematologist every six (6) months to monitor things. Depending on how my pesky lymphocytes grow my doc may choose to see me less often.
About Me
- Wayne Turner
- I was born, raised and went to school in eastern NC. Too immature at 17 to comprehend the seriousness of university life, I dropped out after two years and joined the Air Force. I spent two years of my four year military career in Germany, which I enjoyed immensely. I completed my Bachelor's Degree at Guilford College in 1985. My first career was in the computer field where I did everything short of design one. I've spent the last 30 years in the environmental field working for local governments. In December 2017 I retired from full time work. My overdeveloped sense of fairness and justice lands me on the liberal side in my political views. I think government plays a large role in social responsibility in a civilized state. I believe in the innate compassion and goodness in everyone despite the daily news reports to the contrary. My genetic predisposition for generosity in nearly all things is sometimes a source of future angst. I've been a musician and still have a deep love of music. I am naturally curious about all things especially metaphysics and science.
No comments:
Post a Comment