At what point do increasing lymph nodes mean treatment is nearing? Is it the # of nodes? The size? Where they are located? Is blood work results always in the picture?
I am feeling more nodes in my neck, both sides. Next Dr appointment in July. Feel okay!
Hi Wendy328,
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The answer to your question is a composite of several of the items you mentioned. The CLL expert doctors will watch for any node interfering with other organs, arteries or nerves. The usual trigger for node size is 4" / 10 cm but those are usually deep in your abdomen (mine were on opposite sides of my bladder). And b symptoms and declining red blood cells ( HGB, HCT, platelets) or declining ANC / Neut# are always monitored but not always the final trigger for treatment.
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You may find some good answers in this Pinned Post, healthunlocked.com/cllsuppo...
The question posed is different than yours, but the answers, especially Dr. Lamanna's is useful.
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Len
Hi Wendy328,
My decision to start treatment was based solely on node size. I had no fever, night sweats, fatigue, etc, just enlarged lymph nodes. In my case, it wasn't based on a specific measurement, but location.
The lymph nodes in my neck were large and it had gotten to the point where they hurt if I turned my head too far left/right or down. My CLL doc and I both agreed that it was time to do something about it.
Had it not been for node size, I may have gone another year or so before starting treatment as my blood numbers were high, but still acceptable and I had no other symptoms. Unlike others here who have been in W&W for a long time, I was progressing quickly and the time between diagnosis and treatment was about 11 months.
Painful lymph nodes
lymph nodes
CLL and Breast Lymph nodes
Lymph nodes that are multiplying 
Lymph nodes pain
