General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
In chronic myeloid leukaemia, a fusion gene called BCR-ABL contributes to abnormal cell multiplication. Doctors use it in diagnosis and follow-up.
A molecular test looks for this marker. Measuring it provides a baseline once the diagnosis is confirmed and allows the response to treatment to be followed.
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are targeted treatments used in this disease. The choice depends on treatment goals, other health conditions and tolerability.
The French health authority describes regular molecular measurement of BCR-ABL. Timing can be adapted to response and circumstances, including when the team considers supervised treatment withdrawal.
A result should be compared with previous ones with the haematologist. Ask what the trend means for your treatment; a single number does not justify changing it yourself.
Keep your reports and ask when the next sample and discussion are due. Report side effects or difficulty taking the medicine before changing or stopping treatment on your own.
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