[wenlock00]

Re: Post stem cell transplant (SCT) experiences

by wenlock00 on Tue Oct 31, 2017 6:06 pm

Interesting, my plasma cells were 70% (Type G) and the initial papaprotein 49 g/l (4.9 g/dL). Was your version of multiple myeloma nonsecretory and did your bone marrow biopsy show any significant degree of disease load? Just wondering if the level and duration of disease makes the stem cell transplant recovery more challenging? I have felt that my bone marrow has been very active during recovery. I think I have had the multiple myeloma a very long time (years) before it was fully diagnosed.

[Blackbird]

Re: Post stem cell transplant (SCT) experiences

by Blackbird on Wed Nov 08, 2017 2:49 pm

My multiple myeloma was diagnosed relatively early, which may have played a part. No bone damage had yet occurred, and my light chain numbers, while high, weren't even close to some of the numbers that I've read here. I have a chromosomal addition (gain), as opposed to a deletion, so it is not nearly as aggressive as other forms and, fortunately for me, easier to control.

[RadiantTiger]

Re: Post stem cell transplant (SCT) experiences

by RadiantTiger on Wed Nov 29, 2017 3:19 pm

Mark, I am sorry you are having to go through this at such a young age.
Try to be patient. It can take up to a year for a 'full' recovery.

At 2 years post-transplant I feel like I pretty much 'have my life back' - BUT - my immune system is, shall we say, 'not what it once was'. My white-cell count never totally recovered post-transplant (and being on Revlimid maintenance therapy also affects white-count). But this is a small price to pay for 'getting my life back' after that first very long and rough year after diagnosis/treatment/transplant.

That said, there are ways to boost your immune system. I have a good Integrative MD who supports me in this endeavor (in addition to my Myeloma oncologist).

Best wishes
RT