BMT Day +32 Some breakthroughs … improving but still suffering

3/19/11

Teri’s week as it appears on her erase board:

+25    WBC   800    ANC = neutrophil count (neutropenia or low count < 1000)

+26             800             460    Continuous hematuria (blood in urine) – catheterized

+27             1100           690    Phyllis: Reike, healing touch, teaches us to do TENS

+28             1200           830    Teri begins to walk again

+29             1600           900    Bone marrow biopsy and aspiration, ultrasound

+30             1600           920    Oral herpes begins to improve

+31             1500           960    The biopsy shows engraftment, probably from Ben

+32             1700           1190  Not neutropenic … salads & restaurant food yeah!

A lot of progress! 

The oral mucositis with herpes on top is improving despite a previous concern that it was resistant to the antivirals.  Benzocaine topical gel is Teri’s best friend.  She has hunger, but still eats only sparingly and remains on TPN (IV nutrition).    

The BK (Burger King for want of a better name) virus continues to cause continuous hemorrhaging and hourly bladder spasms 24/7.  It has been tough to get sufficient sleep now up to 2-3 hours at a stretch.  The catheter doesn’t stop the spasms, but prevents her having to get up to go.  She remains on a continuous narcotic drip and two antibladder spasm medications. 

Teri says:  I[m waiting impatiently[for the bladder pain and infection to subside.