It took several days of tests and consultations to get a clearer picture of the chemotherapy that would help mom recover her health. The hematologist (blood doctor) talked with mom and dad on Tuesday night 1/11 and again when I was there on Wednesday morning 1/12.
I think they identified her leukemia as an acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). I don't have the notebook here, so I will issue a correction if I find I am remembering wrong. I am more certain that they indicated that it was a type M4.
The treatment plan has 3 phases. The overall goal is to kill off all of her body's ability to produce blood cells, then let the body regenerate itself and see if the cells it starts producing are normal. If they are, then she's in remission and should return to good health. If not, then they will try again.
For the first phase, mom will be in the hospital. During Week 1 they administer the chemo drugs. During Week 2, all her own blood cells die. Red cells and platelets can be replaced via IV, but her immunity will be essentially zero, and she will likely require IV feedings and isolation. During Week 3 her body will begin to produce blood cells again. Assuming she achieves remission, then Week 4 should see her regaining her strength.
The second phase consists of 4-6 months of outpatient treatments. Typically, chemo is given 5 consecutive days in the first week. The second week can require hospitalization for IV feeding and isolation.
The third phase (often called maintenance) varies based on her individual needs. Mom will obviously need to be tested regularly to ensure she remains in remission.
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