Lymph node biopsy results

[Lesley3]

Hello everyone, just a quick update- my husband finally went for results of lymph node biopsy and thank goodness no mutations. We’re now trying to decide whether to have ibrutinab or ventoclax treatment. Best wishes to everyone Lesley 😊

[PaulaS Volunteer]

So glad your husband's biopsy was OK, Lesley. What a relief.

There are various factors to consider when choosing between Ibrutinib and Venetoclax. Hopefully your consultant will talk these things through with you and hubby.

Eg Venetoclax is at first given in a carefully monitored hospital environment with overnight stays. Ibrutinib can usually be taken at home without such monitoring. Cuts down on Covid risks in hospital.

But if someone has existing heart problems, Ibrutinib is not such a good idea. There are other factors to be considered but those are things that stuck in my mind.

Wishing you both all the best as you face this new stage in the CLL journey.

Paula

[Lesley3 in reply to PaulaS]

Hi, thank you for replying . Our consultant did explain the “ups and downs” of both treatments and has now given us time to decide which is right for us. Best wishes, stay safe😊Lesley

[Lesley3 in reply to PaulaS]

I think we too are going to choose the venetoclax option. It really is a journey. Best wishes to you both.Lesley

[Fran57]

Good news Lesley 😉As we’re being told all the time, every one is different, but we decided, after research, and with the agreement of Paul’s consultant, that he should go for Venetoclax + Rituximab. ( he had FCR in 2015).

He only has a slight heart issue, but we felt that, along with that, the idea of limited treatment (2 years) was more acceptable to us. He is in week 4 of the five week ramp up of Venetoclax ( well, he will be if they can find him a bed today 🤦‍♀️… nothing yet) and we hope he will continue to do well.

I wish you well with your decision… we are so fortunate to have these choices.. I think all the time of the brilliant scientists, doctors and people in trials who give us this opportunity.

Stay safe and good luck,

Fran 😷

[Hidden]

Hello & sending well wishes for your husband and hugs to you Lesley!