Repeat Blood Counts and MIBG scans
So, we have more blood counts.
The ANC (Absolute Neutrophil Count) is normally >1800. Madelyn's was 1610 on 3/1/2007. It is now in the severe range of <500. Neutrophils are the precursors to white blood cells. Without them, new WBCs fail to be created and she is at a very high risk of infection. So we are to avoid taking her out and no one who is sick in the slightest can be in contact with her. We have to call the doctor if she has fever of >101 or two temperatures >100.5 twice in the same day. Unfortunately, her count only has to be >750 to be treated, so she almost definitely will not be back to full ANC by Thursday the 15th, her next scheduled chemo. We anticipate that she will be immunocompromised for at least the next 2 months.
Madelyn had her MIBG scans this week. It consisted on administering the redioactive iodine isotope and letting her body absorb it. Ideally, the neuroblastoma cells will absorb it well and irradiate in the scans so we can understand everywhere the disease is in her little (19lb) body. We'll have the results when we return to the clinic on Wednesday the 14th.
On a positive note, her lymph nodes are noticably smaller.
On the other hand, her hair is becoming brittle and is starting to fall out.
I need to jump off of here. I'll post more tomorrow.
Love
The Bell Family
2 comments:
Hey Guys- Just checking in. Allie Grace and I pray to her guardian angels every night, we ask that they watch over Madelyn Grace right now. We pray that you all keep up your strength. If you need anything at all call us. If you have med questions or need help finding anything. Patrick can help. I can help pick up or run errands anything you need. Big Hugs!!!!! Judy, Patrick Lennon
Happy Friday guys, I hope all is going well with little Madelyn and you were able to do the second round of chemo.
Your little one is a fighter and she will kick some NB butt. =)
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