Bone Marrow Aspiraton, Spinal Tap, and Chemo [UPDATED 1/23/12]

Blood and bone marrow samples

[UPDATE 1/23/12]: Bone marrow results are CLEAR. White blood cell in CNS showed no evidence of leukemia blasts!


ANC 1.5
WBC 2.1
HGB 11.3
PLT 279K

Jaylon underwent a bone marrow aspiration and another spinal tap today due to the abnormal cell present in his last test results. They are sending his blood, bone marrow, and CSF samples to a special lab in Seattle to further detect any recurrence. The lab in Seattle has one of the most sensitive devices that can scan for the tiniest presence of leukemia cells. 

Today's lab results looked good and the preliminary CSF showed 1 white blood cell. We will find out more details when the final results come in on Monday. Jaylon was lively and in good spirits this morning. Everything went on as planned with no surprises.

The bone aspiration was an excruciating sight and not for the faint of heart. Imagine opening a bottle of wine with a corkscrew. Now imagine instead of a wine bottle, it is your back side. The doctor violent drives the corkscrew-like tool into his back and pushes it in deep and rocks side to side until the spongy bone marrow is retrieved.

We are now back in wait mode. Although worrisome we are very optimistic because all other results look great. Jay is a bit sore and is experiencing some discomfort as expected. With all that he is starting his steroids week again.

Thank you for all your prayers and well wishes.