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Patients HCP
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TK

 
 
 
Monitoring 
Ph+ CML in 
Chronic Phase
 
 
 

Monitoring matters

When you have Ph+ CML-CP, monitoring your blood is key. Your doctor will order tests to see if you are responding to treatment with SCEMBLIX and to check for side effects.

Discuss your results with your doctor

It’s important to go for any blood tests your doctor prescribes. But you have to go a step further and make sure you discuss the results of your blood work with your doctor. This will help you understand what your results mean.

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Tests your doctor may prescribe

 

  • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR or molecular) test: The PCR test measures your BCR::ABL1 level and is the standard for monitoring response to CML medications. PCR testing is sensitive enough to detect the smallest amount of leukemic cells in the blood and bone marrow. It is typically done every 3 months for 2 years, then every 3 to 6 months thereafter. Ask your doctor how often you should get tested

  • Complete blood count (CBC): The CBC with differential and chemistry profile counts the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood

  • Standard cytogenetic test: Using a small sample of your bone marrow, this test measures the number of cells with the Ph chromosome

  • Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) test: This test uses fluorescent dyes and a fluorescent microscope to measure the number of cells with the Ph chromosome. Your doctor may order this test because a standard cytogenetic test may not detect all the leukemic cells in the blood

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Keep track of your results

 

You may find it helpful to keep track of the trend in your BCR::ABL1 level. You and your doctor will want to see this level decrease or stay stable over time. If your BCR::ABL1 level starts to increase, your doctor may adjust your dose or consider another treatment option.

Other tests your doctor may require

During your treatment with SCEMBLIX, your doctor will conduct tests to check for side effects. Your doctor will periodically monitor your blood pressure. Your doctor will also check your blood cell counts (white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets), and test for pancreatitis. Your doctor may also order a pregnancy test before you start treatment with SCEMBLIX.